The recent act of terrorism during a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, has shocked the community and left eight individuals hospitalized. The man suspected of this heinous act, 45-year-old Mohamed Soliman, has been formally charged with a federal hate crime, as outlined in court documents. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding public safety and the rise of hate-fueled violence in the United States.
According to investigators, Soliman conducted extensive research on platforms like YouTube to learn how to create Molotov cocktails. He not only purchased the necessary ingredients but also constructed them prior to the attack. During police interviews, Soliman expressed a desire to kill all individuals he labeled as “Zionist” and stated that he wished they were all dead. Alarmingly, he indicated that he would carry out such an attack again if given the opportunity.
Soliman's motivations were rooted in a misguided belief that he needed to prevent the "Zionist group" from taking over what he referred to as "our land," which he identified as Palestine. This rhetoric highlights the dangerous ideology that often fuels acts of violence against specific communities.
Documents reveal that Soliman, a husband and father of five, had been planning the attack for a year. He strategically timed the assault to occur after his daughter’s graduation. On the day of the attack, he traveled approximately 100 miles from his home in Colorado Springs to Boulder, stopping to purchase gasoline along the way.
During the demonstration, Soliman allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower and threw an incendiary device into a gathering of pro-Israel demonstrators at a pedestrian mall. Witnesses reported that he shouted “Free Palestine” during the attack. A video circulating on social media captured Soliman holding what appeared to be Molotov cocktails, as he questioned, “How many children killed and end Zionist,” showcasing the violent rhetoric that incited his actions.
Soliman specifically targeted the "Run for Their Lives" event, which aims to raise awareness about hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and calls for their immediate release. His decision to attack this particular group highlights a troubling trend of violence against peaceful demonstrations advocating for human rights.
As a result of the attack, eight victims ranging in age from 52 to 88 were hospitalized with burns. While six of them have since been released, two remain in critical condition but are expected to survive. This underscores the real and immediate consequences of hate-fueled violence.
At the crime scene, police recovered at least fourteen unlit Molotov cocktails made from glass wine carafes and Ball jars filled with a clear liquid and red rags. Additionally, a backpack weed sprayer was found, which potentially contained flammable substances. Testing revealed that the liquids were 87 octane gasoline mixed with xylene, further emphasizing the premeditated nature of Soliman's actions.
Following the attack, Soliman was arrested and is currently being held on a $10,000,000 bond. He faces multiple felony charges, including the use of an incendiary device and potentially first-degree murder. Fortunately, there have been no fatalities reported, but the seriousness of the situation cannot be overstated.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi expressed strong condemnation of the attack, stating, “We will never tolerate this kind of hatred.” She emphasized the importance of protecting Jewish Americans and ensuring that they are not targeted for their beliefs.
Adding another layer to this complex case, it has been revealed that Soliman is in the United States illegally. He entered the country on a B2 visa in August 2022, which expired in February 2023. Although he was granted a work permit afterward, that permit also expired in March, leaving him undocumented.
In response to the attack, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social, asserting that such crimes would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. He called for stricter border security measures and highlighted the urgent need to address illegal immigration, stating, “This is yet another example of why we must keep our Borders SECURE.”
This incident remains a developing story, and as more details emerge, it serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of hate-driven violence in society. The community of Boulder, Colorado, and beyond are left grappling with the aftermath of Soliman's actions, as they seek justice and healing in the wake of this tragic event. Please check back for updates as this situation continues to unfold.
