Pro-Israel supporters were violently attacked with a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails during a peaceful memorial event for Hamas hostages in Boulder, Colorado, as the assailant shouted “Free Palestine” before being taken into custody.
Key Takeaways
- A man identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman attacked pro-Israel supporters with a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails during a peaceful memorial walk for Hamas hostages in Boulder, Colorado.
- Six people, including children, were injured with burns during the attack, which the FBI is investigating as an act of terrorism motivated by ideology.
- The suspect reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” and “This will end when Palestine is free” during the assault.
- The attack occurred shortly after major news outlets spread false reports about Israeli soldiers attacking Gazans, potentially inflaming tensions.
- Law enforcement quickly apprehended the suspect, though charges have not yet been announced.
Terror Strikes Boulder Memorial Event
What began as a solemn memorial walk to raise awareness for hostages held by Hamas in Gaza quickly descended into chaos on Sunday when an attacker targeted participants with homemade incendiary devices. The incident unfolded on Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall, where families and community members had gathered to show support for Israeli hostages. The assault left six people injured, with victims suffering burns from what authorities described as a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails. Among the injured were children who had joined their parents at what should have been a peaceful demonstration calling for the hostages’ release.
The suspect, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, was quickly apprehended by law enforcement after witnesses alerted police to the attack. According to witnesses, Soliman shouted “Free Palestine” while carrying out the assault. The FBI and Justice Department moved swiftly to classify the incident as a potential act of terrorism, with investigators focusing on the ideological motivation behind the violence that shattered the peaceful gathering.
Disturbing Witness Accounts and Reactions
Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the attack. “He’s right there. He’s throwing Molotov cocktails,” a witness reported during the chaotic scene, as participants scattered to escape the flames. Others described how the attacker specifically targeted those displaying Israeli flags or symbols of support for the hostages. Perhaps most chillingly, the assailant was reportedly heard declaring, “This will end when Palestine is free,” as he launched his assault on the unsuspecting crowd.
“This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on the early information, the evidence, and witness accounts. We will speak clearly on these incidents when the facts warrant it,” said Dan Bongino, FBI Deputy Director. WBALTV
Adding to the disturbing nature of the incident, video footage emerged showing a pro-Hamas protester at the scene blaming the victims themselves for “antagonizing” the attacker. This victim-blaming narrative immediately drew condemnation from law enforcement officials and community leaders, who emphasized that peaceful demonstrations are protected activities that should never invite violent responses regardless of political viewpoints.
Media Misinformation and Rising Tensions
The attack in Boulder comes at a particularly sensitive time, occurring shortly after several major news outlets spread what turned out to be false reports about Israeli soldiers attacking Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Some conservative commentators have suggested these misleading narratives may have contributed to an atmosphere where violence against pro-Israel groups could be incited. The incident also follows increasing calls for a “global intifada” from certain activist groups, raising concerns about the potential for further violence at demonstrations related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
“This will end when Palestine is free,” stated the attacker, during the violent assault on peaceful demonstrators. RedState
Colorado Governor Jared Polis issued a statement condemning the attack, emphasizing that “hate-filled acts” have no place in Colorado. The Boulder community, still healing from a mass shooting at a grocery store four years ago, now faces another traumatic incident of public violence. Local religious leaders from various faiths have called for unity and healing while emphasizing the importance of allowing peaceful demonstrations to proceed without the threat of violence.
Investigation Continues as Community Reels
As the FBI’s investigation unfolds, authorities have yet to announce formal charges against Soliman, though officials have stated their intention to hold him fully accountable. Law enforcement agencies are examining the suspect’s background, online activities, and potential connections to extremist groups. Despite the Boulder Police Chief’s initial reluctance to speculate on motives, the evidence and witness statements point strongly toward an ideologically motivated attack targeting supporters of Israel during a humanitarian-focused event.
President Trump has condemned the attack and called for swift justice, highlighting the need for stronger protection of peaceful demonstrators regardless of their political views. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how international conflicts can spark dangerous domestic violence and underscores the critical importance of accurate reporting on sensitive geopolitical issues. As the Boulder community begins its recovery process, questions remain about how to prevent similar attacks at future demonstrations while preserving the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
