In brief
An Egyptian man, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower in an attack on a peaceful gathering in Boulder, injuring eight and prompting investigations into the act's ties to growing antisemitism.
In a disturbing show of violence, eight people were injured during a peaceful demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday, as supporters of Israeli hostages gathered to draw attention to their plight. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Egyptian national Mohamed Sabry Soliman, is currently in the United States illegally, having overstayed his tourist visa, which expired in February 2023, according to the Department of Homeland Security.This horrifying incident took place as demonstrators marched to commemorate Israeli hostages held by Hamas since the attack on October 7, 2023. Witnesses reported that the assailant used a makeshift flamethrower to launch an attack, injuring four men and four women aged between 52 and 88 years. Many of the victims sustained severe burns and were transported to local hospitals, with at least two being airlifted to a specialized burn unit in Denver.As authorities categorize the assault as a potential act of terrorism, Soliman has been charged with several offenses, including first-degree murder. Authorities confirm that this violent event comes against a backdrop of increasing antisemitism across the U.S., marked by recent attacks on Jewish communities. Governor Jared Polis lamented the resurfacing of violence against Jewish individuals, especially poignant as they neared the festival of Shavuot, which holds significant cultural relevance.According to Lisa Effress, a Boulder resident and participant in the weekly marches, the event was a routine gathering meant to honor and remember the hostages. Yet, it turned into chaos as the assailant yelled "Free Palestine" amidst the violence, resulting in panic and chaos as participants hurried to extinguish flames and assist those injured.The impact of this attack reverberated through safe spaces for the Jewish community, with many expressing fear and uncertainty about the future of such peaceful gatherings. As such, the marching group has since canceled their weekly events indefinitely due to safety concerns, a reflection of the disturbing trend of violence against Jewish individuals and communities in the U.S.The incident not only highlights the victims' physical injuries but also poses broader implications for communal safety and the pressing need for dialogue amidst a climate of increasing hostility related to global conflicts.
