A Colorado community reels as violence at a pro-Israel rally sparks urgent calls for action against rising antisemitism.
A peaceful pro-Israel rally in Boulder, Colorado, turned into a scene of terror when a man attacked participants with incendiary devices, leaving eight people injured—including a Holocaust survivor. Authorities charged Mohamed Sabry Soliman with murder and terrorism-related offenses, calling the incident a targeted act of hate. This attack, which unfolded on Pearl Street during a “Run for Their Lives” event, underscores the alarming rise in antisemitic violence and raises pressing questions about protest safety, free speech, and the need for community solidarity.
What Happened in Boulder?
The Attack
On June 1, 2025, Pearl Street in Boulder was alive with demonstrators advocating for Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The rally, organized by local Jewish groups, was meant to be a celebration of solidarity and hope. In a sudden turn, the tranquility was shattered as Mohamed Sabry Soliman hurled Molotov cocktails and used a makeshift flamethrower against the crowd. Witnesses described a scene of chaos, with flames licking at the surrounding buildings and people desperately seeking cover.
“It was like nothing I’ve ever seen. People were screaming, and the fire was everywhere,” recalled Leah Goldstein, a rally participant.
Among the injured was an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor whose ordeal has become a stark symbol of the attack’s brutality. With injuries ranging from minor burns to life-threatening conditions, the incident has left deep scars on the community and highlighted the vulnerability of groups targeted by hate.
The Suspect
Investigations quickly led to Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national who had overstayed his U.S. visa, as the prime suspect. Arrested at the scene, he now faces multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, attempted murder, assault, and use of incendiary devices. Officials revealed that during the attack, Soliman was heard shouting slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “End Zionist.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation has classified the incident as terrorism, marking it as one of the most severe hate crimes in recent memory.
Community and Political Response
Outrage and Solidarity
The Boulder attack provoked overwhelming condemnation from leaders at all levels. Colorado Governor Jared Polis decried the event as a “heinous act of terror” and vowed that “justice will be served.” Attorney General Phil Weiser went further, designating the event as a hate crime and calling for unwavering support for the affected community.
Jewish organizations joined in the chorus of condemnation. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Jewish Federations of North America stressed that the attack is part of a disturbing pattern of antisemitic violence growing nationwide. “This is not an isolated incident. Antisemitic violence is rising, and we must confront it together,” stated ADL spokesperson Rachel Klein.
Policy and Security Measures
In direct response to the incident, Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn announced that security at Jewish events would be significantly increased to prevent further tragedies. Federal authorities are also exploring the creation of specialized task forces dedicated to combating hate crimes. Local organizers, shaken by the unforeseen violence, have canceled upcoming rallies to reassess public safety measures.
The Bigger Picture: Antisemitism on the Rise
Alarming Statistics
The Boulder attack is emblematic of a broader trend. In the months following the October 2023 Israel-Hamas conflict, the ADL documented a 361% surge in antisemitic incidents across the United States. FBI reports from 2024 indicate a 63% rise in anti-Jewish hate crimes, with Jewish Americans—representing only 2% of the national population—accounting for nearly 68% of all recorded religion-based hate crimes.
Social media has fueled this surge in bias, with platforms such as TikTok and Instagram serving as amplifiers of hate speech. The normalization of extremist rhetoric in public discourse has unfortunately made incidences of violence and harassment increasingly common. With physical assaults against Jewish individuals escalating by over 50% in some regions, it is evident that the Boulder attack is part of a national crisis.
National and Global Implications
The violent assault in Boulder occurs amid heightened tensions resulting from renewed conflicts in the Middle East and domestic political polarization. The transmission of hate speech via social media and public platforms has only exacerbated the situation, making it clear that antisemitism is no longer confined to fringe groups but is a challenge with national and international dimensions. As the community reels from this latest attack, there is an urgent call for measures to stop the normalization of such ideologies.
Navigating Protest, Free Speech, and Hate
The Debate Over Protest Safety and Free Speech
In the wake of the Boulder attack, debates have surged regarding the balance between free speech and the imperative of protest safety. While lawful protest remains a fundamental American right, the violent execution of this rally has raised concerns about safeguarding public events without infringing on constitutional freedoms. Colorado Attorney General Weiser stressed that political expression must never serve as a justification for violence.
The situation contrasts sharply with recent controversies surrounding campus protests, where institutions have been criticized for restricting free speech to curb potential violence. These incidents underscore the complexity of protecting both the right to protest and the safety of the community.
Distinguishing Criticism from Hate
An equally challenging debate centers on differentiating legitimate criticism of Israeli policy from antisemitism. While discerning policy critique from hate-filled rhetoric remains a nuanced issue, the Boulder attack represents a clear case where harmful sentiment escalated into violence. Jewish leaders emphasize that while criticism of governmental policy is acceptable, personal attacks or dehumanization of entire communities cross a dangerous line.
Organizations like the ADL and World Jewish Congress advocate for clear, educational guidelines that help the public differentiate between constructive criticism and hate speech. They argue that combating antisemitism effectively requires both protection of free speech and proactive measures to challenge hate-fueled narratives.
Moving Forward: Community Actions and Policy Change
Community Resilience and Action
In these challenging times, community solidarity is more important than ever. In the aftermath of the attack, local Jewish groups and civil rights organizations are mobilizing. Vigils and community meetings have been organized to support victims and honor those affected by the violence. Leaders across Boulder have stressed that unity in the face of hate is critical for healing and preventing future attacks.
Local advocates are urging community members to support organizations that combat antisemitism and to engage in educational programs that foster understanding and respect among diverse groups.
“We must stand together against hate, no matter where it comes from. Today, our unity is our strength,” urged Rabbi Israel Wilhelm of the University of Colorado Boulder.
What You Can Do
Citizens can take several proactive steps to contribute to a safer society:
• Engage with and support local and national organizations dedicated to fighting hate crimes.
• Educate yourself and others about the history and contributions of Jewish communities.
• Advocate for improved legal protections and increased security at public events.
• Report any hate crimes or suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately.
• Participate in local forums and community outreach programs to foster dialogue and mutual understanding.
The terror attack at Boulder’s pro-Israel rally is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers posed by rising antisemitism and political extremism. As communities across the nation face an increasing array of hate crimes, it is essential to work together to promote safety, justice, and understanding. By bolstering community solidarity, educating against hate, and defending the principles of free speech and protest, we can reject violence and build a more inclusive future.
The time to act is now. Stand with your community, support those fighting hate, and demand accountability from our institutions. Only united can we hope to counter the tide of extremism and secure a safer society for all.
