In Boulder, Colorado, a man wielding a makeshift flamethrower shouted “Free Palestine” before throwing an incendiary device at a group gathered to raise awareness for Israeli hostages in Gaza. Eight people were injured in the attack, some sustaining burns.
The suspect, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, was taken into custody and is expected to face charges related to the incident, which the FBI is treating as a terrorist act. The attack occurred amidst ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas, leading to a surge in antisemitic violence across the United States.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed solidarity with the victims, stating that the attack targeted individuals showing support for Israeli hostages and was fueled by antisemitism.
Following the incident, security measures have been heightened at religious sites in New York City in light of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. Law enforcement officials emphasized the need to address the growing threat of violence targeting communities nationwide.
The victims, aged between 52 and 88, sustained injuries of varying degrees. The attack took place as a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives was wrapping up a demonstration to raise awareness for Gaza hostages.
Authorities believe the suspect acted alone, and no other individuals are being sought in connection with the incident. The FBI classified the attack as an act of terrorism, denouncing it as an act of ideologically driven violence.
As investigations continue, the community in Boulder remains on edge, recalling previous acts of violence in the area. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflicts in the region and the need for vigilance against extremist actions.
