Mohamed Soliman, 45, has been charged with a federal hate crime and multiple state charges, including 16 counts of attempted first-degree murder, following an attack on a pro-Israel rally in Boulder, Colorado. During the incident, Soliman threw Molotov cocktails, injuring 12 people.
Planning and Execution
According to court documents, Soliman researched how to make Molotov cocktails on YouTube and purchased the necessary ingredients. After being denied a gun purchase due to his immigration status, he opted to use incendiary devices instead. He disguised himself as a gardener to get close to the demonstration.
Motivations Behind the Attack
Soliman allegedly expressed hatred specifically towards “Zionist people,” stating he wished they were all dead. He said his attack was not against the Jewish community broadly but targeted Zionists supporting actions in Palestine. He admitted to planning the attack for over a year but waited until after his daughter’s high school graduation to carry it out.
Arrest and Evidence
Soliman was arrested at the scene with 16 unused Molotov cocktails within arm’s reach. Police found glass bottles filled with gasoline and red rags, along with a backpack sprayer containing a flammable liquid. Authorities praised first responders for quickly stopping the attack.
Victims and Impact
Twelve victims were identified, ranging in age from 52 to 88 years old, with several hospitalized due to burns. The attack targeted the “Run for Their Lives” walk, which raises awareness about hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
Immigration Status and Background
Soliman was born in Egypt, lived in Kuwait for 17 years, and moved to Colorado Springs three years ago. He entered the U.S. in August 2022 on a B2 visa, which expired in February 2023. Despite this, he was granted a work permit that expired in March 2025. He is currently in the country illegally.
Official Responses
Boulder’s mayor condemned the attack and emphasized the need to combat rising antisemitism. Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the hatred behind the attack.
President Donald Trump called for strict prosecution and highlighted the importance of secure borders to prevent such incidents. Former President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed prayers for the victims and stressed unity against antisemitic violence.