Man injures eight in Boulder attack against Israeli hostages supporters
- A man in Boulder, Colorado attacked demonstrators advocating for the release of Israeli hostages during their event.
- Eight individuals were injured due to the attack, which included the use of incendiary devices.
- The incident has reignited discussions regarding the rise in antisemitic violence and the need for increased security at public demonstrations.
In Boulder, Colorado, on a Sunday afternoon in June 2025, a violent attack occurred targeting individuals participating in a demonstration advocating for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The assailant, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national, utilized a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails to cause harm, injuring eight people, some of whom suffered serious burns. The demonstration was organized by a group named Run For Their Lives that was gathering support for hostages taken during a Hamas assault on Israel. Witnesses reported unsettling scenes of chaos, with people responding to the attack by providing aid to the injured. As investigations commenced, it was revealed that Soliman had planned the attack for over a year, expressing a clear animosity towards what he termed as a 'Zionist group.' His motivations were underpinned by a desire to attack individuals he believed represented Israeli interests. The incident has triggered discussions regarding rising antisemitism in the United States, especially in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Law enforcement officials, including the FBI, classified Soliman's actions as ideologically motivated terrorism. Following his arrest, several incendiary devices were discovered nearby. Authorities confirmed that Soliman's immigration status was illegal after arriving in the U.S. on a tourist visa that had expired. Soliman's statements during police interrogation revealed his extreme beliefs and intentions, further raising concerns about the security of minority communities in the context of increasing violence. Both local and national leaders have condemned the attack and emphasized the importance of unity in countering hatred and ensuring community safety. In the aftermath, discussions on security measures for such demonstrations have intensified as community groups seek ways to protect their members in light of rising tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The tragic event underscores significant societal issues regarding violence, freedom of expression, and the enduring challenges of addressing hate-driven motivation in attacks.