Molotov Attack at Pro-Israel Rally in Colorado Investigated as Terrorism

A man launched a violent attack on a peaceful pro-Israel protest in Boulder, Colorado, shouting slogans like “End Zionists,” “Palestine is free,” and “They are killers,” before throwing Molotov cocktails at demonstrators. U.S. officials described the incident as a “targeted terror attack.”

Suspect Identified and Detained

The attacker has been identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman. According to Mark Michalek, the special agent in charge at the FBI’s Denver office, the suspect used a makeshift flamethrower during the attack. Authorities took Soliman into custody and said he would be “fully accountable” for the incident. The 45-year-old suspect also suffered injuries and was hospitalized for treatment.

Several Injured in Attack

The assault happened near 13th and Pearl Street during a weekly event called “Run for Their Lives,” which is held in support of Israeli hostages. At least six people were injured. Boulder Police said the victims suffered burns and other related injuries.

FBI Calls It an Act of Terrorism

Michalek confirmed, “As a result of these preliminary facts, it is clear that this is a targeted act of violence and the FBI is investigating this as an act of terrorism.”

Police initially refrained from speculating on the motive but later confirmed that the attack seemed aimed at members of the Jewish community participating in a peaceful gathering.

Eyewitness Video Shows Chaos

Videos from the scene show a shirtless man holding bottles while a fire burns in front of him. In the video, the attacker is heard yelling, “End Zionists!” “Palestine is Free!” and “They are killers!” He appeared to throw what looked like a homemade Molotov cocktail toward people dressed in red shirts helping someone on the ground.

Authorities Believe Suspect Acted Alone

Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn said, “We’re fairly confident we have the lone suspect in custody.” Earlier, he had stated it was “way too early to speculate” about the motive. He said initial calls mentioned a man with a weapon setting people on fire.

“When we arrived, we encountered multiple victims who were injured, with injuries consistent with burns and other injuries,” Redfearn added.

FBI and White House Respond

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the agency’s involvement. “Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available,” he said.

The White House also stated that President Donald Trump had been briefed about the incident.

Tensions Over Gaza Conflict

This attack comes amid growing tensions in the United States over the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The conflict has contributed to a rise in antisemitic hate crimes across the country.