A firebombing attack at a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, has left several people injured. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a man, later identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, allegedly targeted a rally supporting Israelis taken hostage by Hamas. Witnesses reported that Soliman yelled phrases like “free Palestine” and “end Zionist” while using a makeshift flamethrower and throwing an incendiary device into the crowd.
Soliman, an Egyptian national, is believed to have entered the United States in August 2022 on a visa that expired in February 2023. He reportedly overstayed his visa and had previously been granted work authorization by the Biden administration, which also expired in March. Authorities have confirmed that he is in the country illegally.
The FBI is treating this incident as an act of ideologically motivated terrorism. Six individuals were taken to the hospital with injuries, including burns. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated that all necessary resources will be allocated to the investigation. He emphasized that the act is being examined as targeted violence and urged anyone with information to come forward.
The National Counterterrorism Center is also involved in the investigation, working alongside the FBI and local law enforcement. This attack is particularly alarming as it targeted a gathering meant to raise awareness about hostages taken during the recent conflict involving Hamas.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on uncovering the motives behind the attack and ensuring the safety of community members.