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In a disturbing incident in downtown Boulder, Mohamed Soliman, 45, who resides near Colorado Springs, has been charged with a federal hate crime for allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at a group demonstrating in support of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The attack, which had been planned for a year according to the suspect, resulted in eight injuries, including at least one critical condition. Soliman is currently detained at the Boulder County jail and faces state charges in an upcoming court appearance.

During the attack, which took place in the vicinity of Pearl Street Mall, Soliman reportedly shouted "free Palestine" as he launched the incendiary devices. Among the victims were individuals aged 52 to 88, including a Holocaust survivor. In a post-incident investigation, 14 unlit Molotov cocktails were discovered at the scene, constructed out of glass wine carafes or Ball jars filled with gasoline and red rags as wicks. Soliman admitted to police that he had learned to make these devices on YouTube and had driven from Colorado Springs to execute this planned assault.

Authorities, including the FBI and Boulder police, are treating the attack as an act of terrorism. The federal affidavit revealed that Soliman harbored deep animosity towards Zionists, claiming his goal was to kill them and expressing regret only that he couldn't act sooner due to family obligations.

Soliman, who entered the U.S. on a B-2 visa in August 2022 which expired in February 2023, is residing illegally in the country. His asylum application status remains unclear. His background shows minimal interactions with law enforcement, primarily traffic-related, but notable proximity to federal agents' interest recently.

The demonstration group, Run for their Lives, has been holding peaceful gatherings on Pearl Street Mall for nearly two years to raise awareness of various issues. The brutal attack shockingly coincided with the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, and comes in the wake of another violent incident against Israeli diplomats in Washington.

The response from local and international figures has been swift. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, identifying it as an act of anti-Semitic terrorism and prayed for the injured. The Islamic Center of Boulder also denounced the violence, calling for unity and the protection of First Amendment rights.

Eyewitness reports recall a chaotic and grim scene, with one bystander capturing the immediate aftermath on video. The footage includes moments of people dousing flames on a burning woman and the suspect briefly setting himself on fire before being apprehended by police.

As the investigation continues, Boulder authorities and the FBI have scheduled a news conference to provide further updates on the case. The community is left grappling with the traumatic event, calling for justice and solidarity in the face of such targeted aggression.