Renowned author Salman Rushdie has testified in court about the harrowing moments following a brutal stabbing attack that left him with life-altering injuries. Speaking publicly for the first time about the incident, Rushdie revealed that he genuinely believed he was dying after being repeatedly stabbed on stage during a literary event in New York in August 2022.
Rushdie, who has faced threats for decades due to his controversial novel The Satanic Verses, described the attack as a sudden and violent assault. He recounted how he was preparing to speak when a man rushed the stage and repeatedly stabbed him in the neck, face, and torso. The attack left him blind in one eye and with severe damage to his hand.
During his testimony, Rushdie detailed the intense pain and fear he experienced in the moments after the stabbing. He recalled lying on the ground, bleeding profusely, and struggling to breathe as audience members rushed to help him. Medical personnel later confirmed that he suffered multiple critical injuries, including nerve damage and internal wounds.
The accused attacker, Hadi Matar, has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault charges. Prosecutors argue that Matar was motivated by extremist ideology and carried out the attack with the intention of silencing Rushdie. The case has reignited discussions on freedom of speech and the risks faced by writers and intellectuals who challenge religious or political norms.
Despite the traumatic experience, Rushdie has remained resolute in his commitment to free expression. Since the attack, he has continued to advocate for writers’ rights and has spoken about the resilience required to move forward. His latest book, Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder, explores his near-death experience and the impact it has had on his life.
The trial continues, with legal experts closely watching how the case unfolds. The outcome could set a precedent for addressing violent threats against authors and public figures who face risks for their work. As Rushdie’s testimony sheds light on the attack’s brutality, it also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who challenge ideological extremism.
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