Hadi Matar, the 27-year-old who brutally attacked beloved author Sir Salman Rushdie during a lecture in New York, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. In a shocking incident last August, Matar stabbed Rushdie multiple times, leaving him partially blinded and with severe injuries. Matar was found guilty earlier this year of attempted murder and assault after a dramatic trial where Rushdie recounted fearing for his life when the attack occurred.
The judge highlighted that Matar targeted Rushdie specifically because of the author’s contentious book, *The Satanic Verses*, which had long made him a target of threats. In addition to the murder charge, Matar was also convicted of assault for injuring Henry Reese, who was interviewing Rushdie at the time. His prison sentences for both crimes will run concurrently.
During his sentencing hearing, Matar made controversial remarks criticizing Rushdie for his views, indicating a disdain for the author—whom he claimed was disrespectful to others. Despite the gravity of his actions, Matar maintained a not guilty plea throughout the trial. Critics of the attack view this incident as a serious infringement on freedom of speech, given Rushdie's history of facing threats for his literary work.
Rushdie himself was not present at the sentencing but has since shared his recovery experiences in a memoir. The court's decision sends a strong message about the importance of protecting artistic expression and free speech in society.
