Tensions in the United States continue to boil over amid the intensifying Israel-Hamas conflict, as a horrifying attack in Boulder, Colorado, laid bare the growing threat of politically motivated violence.
On Sunday, a man hurled Molotov cocktails and wielded a makeshift flamethrower against a group gathered to honor Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. At least six elderly individuals, aged between 67 and 88, suffered burn injuries—one critically—in what authorities are calling a targeted act.
The assailant, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” while launching his assault.
In a video that has gone viral, a bare-chested Soliman, wearing sunglasses and visibly angry, is seen shouting to a crowd, “How many children have you killed?”.
He was captured on camera brandishing a flamethrower and a Molotov cocktail.
One bystander said, “You can’t do that.”
Soliman defiantly answered saying it can be done.
According to reports, local residents helped the injured, dousing them with water as they lay on the ground.
The attack took place near the ‘Run for Their Lives’ walk on Pearl Street—a peaceful demonstration intended to raise awareness for Israeli hostages. “We are saddened and heartbroken to learn that an incendiary device was thrown at walkers… as they were raising awareness for the hostages still held in Gaza,” read a statement from Boulder’s Jewish community.
Law enforcement reacted swiftly. Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn confirmed that officers responded to emergency calls about a man “setting people on fire.” The area was immediately evacuated, and multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall were locked down. Police with canine units combed the streets, urging the public to avoid the scene.
Soliman was taken into custody on the spot. Authorities believe he acted alone and have stated they are “fairly confident” there are “no additional suspects at large.”
FBI Chief Kash Patel called it a targeted act of terror.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser seconded the view, saying that the attack was a hate crime given the group that was targeted.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis lamented the act, stating, “Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable.”
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