On June 1, 2025, the city of Boulder, Colorado witnessed an attack targeting a peaceful gathering organized by the group “Run for Their Lives” to support Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The attack resulted in 12 injuries, ranging in age from 52 to 88 years old, some with serious burns, including a Holocaust survivor. The suspect, Mohamed Sabri Suleiman, 45 years old, used a primitive flamethrower and Molotov cocktails during the attack, chanting slogans like "Free Palestine."

Background of the Suspect

Mohamed Sabri Suleiman is an Egyptian citizen who entered the United States in August 2022 on a tourist visa (B-2) through Los Angeles International Airport. He applied for asylum in September 2022 and was granted a work permit that expired in March 2025. Since then, he has been living in the country illegally. He was residing in the Colorado Springs area with his family and working as a driver for “Uber.”

Details of the Attack

During the gathering at the Pearl Street Mall, Suleiman used a primitive flamethrower and threw Molotov cocktails at attendees, resulting in 12 injuries, ranging in age from 52 to 88 years old, some with serious burns. During the attack, Suleiman shouted slogans like “Free Palestine” and “End Zionism.”

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Suleiman faces 42 charges, including 16 counts of first-degree attempted murder, hate crime charges, and the use of incendiary devices. He has been held on a $10 million bail and is expected to face penalties that could lead to life imprisonment.

Reactions

The FBI described the attack as a “targeted act of terrorism,” and the U.S. Department of Justice confirmed that it would pursue Suleiman to the fullest extent of the law. Colorado Governor Jared Polis denounced the attack, stating that “hatred is not acceptable in Colorado.” The Islamic Center in Boulder issued a statement condemning the attack, asserting that “such actions have no place in our community.”

It is noteworthy that the attack occurred at a sensitive time, with rising global tensions related to the conflict in Gaza, raising concerns about an increase in ideologically motivated violence in the United States.