Eight individuals were injured in a Colorado attack where the suspect hurled incendiary devices at a pro-Israel rally, triggering investigations into the act of terrorism and racial hate crimes, as officials emphasize the urgent need for dialogue over violence.
Colorado Fire Attack During Pro-Israel Rally Leaves Eight Injured
Colorado Fire Attack During Pro-Israel Rally Leaves Eight Injured
A suspect shouted anti-Israel sentiments while attacking a peaceful gathering, prompting FBI terrorism investigations.
Multiple people in Boulder, Colorado, were injured after a 45-year-old man launched a violent attack during a pro-Israeli demonstration. Identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the suspect reportedly shouted "free Palestine" while using Molotov cocktails and a makeshift flamethrower against the gathering aimed at supporting Israeli hostages in Gaza. The incident occurred at the Pearl Street Mall, a bustling outdoor location, leading to notable chaos and injuries among a group of attendees ranging in age from 52 to 88.
The Boulder Police, responding to calls at approximately 13:26 local time, discovered several individuals suffering from burns and other injuries, suggesting a well-planned and targeted assault. Mark Michalek, head of the FBI's Denver office, confirmed that the methods employed—including incendiary devices—strongly indicate a premeditated act of violence classified as terrorism. Soliman, an Egyptian national who arrived in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa that expired earlier this year, had reportedly been residing in Colorado Springs prior to the attack.
Eyewitness accounts depict scenes of fear and confusion, with bystanders fleeing as smoke engulfed the area. Disturbing footage circulating on social media shows Soliman, without a shirt, aggressively advancing on the crowd while holding Molotov cocktails, creating an atmosphere of panic and shouting that characterized the assault.
The FBI's investigation is closely examining the motivations behind this violent act, with Colorado’s Attorney General Phil Weiser labeling it a hate crime given its targeting of a specific group. Weiser emphasized the need for peaceful discourse while condemning the violence as unacceptable.
International reactions to the incident have included condemnation from Israeli officials, who have characterized the act as antisemitic terrorism fueled by negative media narratives. Both Israel's foreign minister and UN ambassador reacted with shock, insisting that such attacks on Jewish individuals reflect broader issues of safety and antisemitism.
As tensions continue to rise around the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, officials underscore the importance of addressing grievances without resorting to violence, urging communities to come together against hate in all forms.
