Bangladesh, July 29 -- The man on trial in the stabbing of Salman Rushdie chose Tuesday not to testify or call any witnesses in the federal terrorism case, which is expected to head to the jury as soon as Wednesday.

Advertisement Hadi Matar's lawyer told the court that the 28-year-old - who already has been convicted of state-level attempted murder charges - wouldn't take the stand at his trial on charges that include engaging in an act of transnational terrorism.

"At this time, the defense rests," attorney Nathaniel Barone said. Matar has pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors also rested their case Tuesday, and closing arguments are expected Wednesday morning. Rushdie, the prize-winning author of novels including "Midnight's Children" and ...