Terror Strikes Tranquility: Boulder Pro-Israel Event Targeted in Apparent Ideologically-Motivated Attack

BOULDER, Colo. — What began as a peaceful solidarity walk turned into a horrifying scene of chaos and violence on Sunday afternoon as an assailant attacked participants at a pro-Israel gathering in downtown Boulder, injuring at least eight people in what federal authorities are calling a “terror-motivated assault.”

The event, part of a recurring demonstration called Run for Their Lives, was being held on the Pearl Street pedestrian mall, a typically calm and scenic area popular with both locals and tourists. The demonstration aimed to raise awareness about Israeli hostages still held in Gaza and to show support for victims of terror attacks in the Middle East.

Shortly after 1:00 PM local time, witnesses say a man appeared from a side alley, shirtless and barefoot, wielding improvised incendiary devices. He reportedly screamed anti-Israel and anti-Zionist rhetoric before launching multiple firebombs into the crowd.

“I heard someone shouting something about Zionists and then fire erupted near my feet,” said Miriam Goldstein, 68, a retired teacher who suffered minor burns. “We thought it was a prank until we saw the flames catching onto people’s clothes.”

Authorities later identified the suspect as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national. Boulder Police confirmed that Soliman used a combination of Molotov cocktails and what appeared to be a homemade flamethrower to carry out the attack. Six individuals were hospitalized immediately, and two more later sought treatment. One woman remains in critical condition with extensive burns.

According to law enforcement officials, Soliman has been charged with eight counts of attempted murder, the use of explosives, assault with a deadly weapon, and commission of a terror act. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken the lead in the case, stating that the attack appears to be ideologically driven and may qualify as domestic terrorism.

‘We Are Treating This As a Terrorist Attack’

Speaking at a joint press conference, FBI Denver Field Office Director Rachel Cordova said, “Based on the suspect’s statements, methods, and apparent premeditation, we are treating this as an act of terrorism. This was not spontaneous—it was a targeted attack on a protected group.”

Soliman, who entered the United States legally on a tourist visa in 2022, reportedly overstayed his visa by more than a year and had been living in various short-term rentals in the Boulder and Denver areas. Investigators are currently combing through his online activity, digital devices, and travel history to assess whether he was acting alone or in concert with others.

“We have no confirmed ties to known terrorist groups as of now,” said Cordova, “but the investigation is ongoing, and we are pursuing all leads.”

Voices From the Scene

Among the injured was Dr. Leo Stein, 83, a Holocaust survivor and longtime human rights advocate. His family said he sustained second-degree burns and a fractured arm during the panic but is expected to recover.

“He lived through Auschwitz and now this,” said his granddaughter, Rachel Stein. “It’s a bitter irony. But even from his hospital bed, he said, ‘We must not give in to hate.’”

Videos posted to social media show participants running for cover as fire spread across clothing and banners. Several bystanders intervened heroically, one even tackling the attacker and holding him until police arrived within minutes.

One of the demonstrators, 22-year-old CU Boulder student Elijah Marks, said, “I saw a guy with fire bottles—I just ran toward him without thinking. I didn’t want him to hurt anyone else.” Marks sustained minor burns on his hands but is being hailed as one of several who helped prevent greater tragedy.

Political and Community Response

The attack has shaken Boulder’s normally peaceful and progressive community, reigniting debates around free speech, hate crimes, and rising antisemitism.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who is Jewish, issued a swift and forceful statement. “This cowardly, hate-fueled act of violence has no place in Colorado or anywhere. We will hold the perpetrator accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

Local Jewish organizations and synagogues increased security in the immediate aftermath. Rabbi Eliana Roth of Congregation Beth Simcha said, “This attack is not just on Jews—it’s on the fabric of peaceful civil expression. We will not be intimidated.”

Meanwhile, civil liberties groups have urged caution about drawing conclusions too quickly and stressed the importance of due process and avoiding collective blame.

National Implications

The Boulder attack comes amid heightened global tensions and a rise in hate-motivated incidents tied to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. According to FBI Director Christopher Wray, the war in Gaza has “elevated the threat environment” across the United States.

“This is not isolated,” said Wray in a separate national security briefing. “We’re seeing increased threats to synagogues, mosques, and political gatherings across the spectrum.”

In response, the Justice Department has reactivated a special task force focused on monitoring and addressing ideologically motivated violence, including antisemitic and anti-Muslim attacks.

Looking Ahead

As Boulder begins to heal, community members have planned a vigil for the victims at Central Park this Friday. Organizers hope the event will reclaim a sense of unity and purpose.

“We won’t be silenced by fire or fear,” said Yair Cohen, one of the march coordinators. “We will keep marching—not just for hostages in Gaza, but for the soul of this community.”

The suspect remains in federal custody and is expected to appear in court later this week. If convicted on federal terrorism charges, Soliman could face life imprisonment.