In brief
An Egyptian national was apprehended after allegedly launching a flamethrower-style attack on demonstrators in Boulder, as authorities heighten scrutiny on rising anti-Semitic sentiment in the wake of global crises.
June 2, 2025 - In a shocking incident on Sunday, an Egyptian citizen, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, used a “makeshift flamethrower” to launch an attack against a peaceful gathering held in Boulder, Colorado, in support of Israeli hostages being held in Gaza. Authorities revealed that Soliman, who entered the United States from Egypt in August 2022, had remained in the country illegally since his tourist visa expired in February 2023. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Soliman is being investigated as a terrorist. During a federal briefing, spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin disclosed that Soliman had unsuccessfully sought asylum shortly after entering the U.S. The attack, which occurred during a scheduled march, left eight individuals injured—four men and four women, ages 52 to 88—two of whom were reported in critical condition and required helicopter transport to a burn unit in Denver. Witnesses described the chaos as the attacker threw an incendiary device into the crowd, igniting patches of grass and sending onlookers into a panic. Soliman was quickly apprehended by authorities after witnesses identified him, and he now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder. The motivations of the suspect appear to be rooted in anti-Semitic sentiments, as he reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” during the assault.The demonstration was part of a weekly ritual aimed at raising awareness for Israeli hostages amidst ongoing tensions in the region. This violent act has further fueled anxiety among Jewish communities across the United States, who are grappling with a rise in anti-Jewish attacks. Just weeks prior, two Israeli Embassy aides were fatally shot outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C., an incident reflecting the increasingly perilous climate for Jewish Americans.Local Denver resident Lisa Effress, who has been part of the demonstration since its inception, expressed deep concern for the safety of her community, stating that many are now questioning the viability of continuing such public acts of solidarity. Despite the apparent risks, Effress emphasized the importance of being proud and visible in support of their causes. The demonstration, however, has been suspended indefinitely following the incident, as community members seek to navigate their safety in these escalating circumstances.Colorado officials, including Governor Jared Polis, condemned the attack as a hate crime, calling it “unfathomable” that the Jewish community is facing repeated acts of violence. The attack has prompted a national discussion on security for vulnerable communities and the necessity for a collective rejection of violence as a solution to disagreement. As investigations continue, Boulder wrestles with the fallout, the victims recover, and eyes across the nation focus on the growing wave of anti-Semitism that has seemingly intensified in the wake of global conflicts.
