Attack in Boulder: 12 Burned in Antisemitic Violence

Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, has been charged with a federal hate crime after allegedly attacking a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, with fire bombs and a makeshift flamethrower, injuring 12 people aged 52 to 88. Federal officials say Soliman told investigators he had planned the attack for a year and specifically targeted the group because of their pro-Zionist stance. He reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” during the assault and expressed a desire to stop what he called the "takeover" of Palestinian land.

Soliman, who entered the U.S. on a B-2 visa in 2022 and later obtained a work permit, is also facing multiple state charges, including attempted murder and possession of incendiary devices. The FBI recovered 16 additional Molotov cocktails and labeled the incident a terrorist attack, though no formal terrorism charges have been filed.

The suspect, a former Uber driver, is being held on a $10 million bond. The Justice Department and local officials emphasized the seriousness of the hate crime charges and community leaders across Colorado, including Governor Jared Polis, condemned the violence. Six of the victims were members of a local synagogue and the Jewish community is increasing security ahead of upcoming events.

The attack comes amid heightened concerns over antisemitic incidents nationally, including a fatal shooting of Israeli diplomats in Washington, D.C., just weeks earlier. Federal law enforcement officials pledged continued vigilance and preventative action to ensure public safety and protect against targeted violence.