On Sunday in Boulder, Colorado, a suspected terror attack unfolded during a peaceful pro-Israel protest known as ‘Run for Their Lives.’ The incident, which authorities are labeling as an act of terrorism, left 12 people hurt after Mohamed Sabry Soliman allegedly used Molotov cocktails to attack a group protesting for the release of Hamas’ hostages. According to law enforcement, Soliman targeted the protest, expressing a deep-seated resentment towards what he perceived as an ‘occupation’ of Palestine. In his alleged statement to authorities, Soliman claimed that he sought to stop the pro-Israel group from ‘taking over our land,’ which he identified as Palestine.
Soliman’s path to the United States began in August 2022 when he arrived with a B1/B2 visa, originally scheduled to lapse in February 2023. However, the Biden administration unexpectedly extended his stay, granting him work authorization until March 2025. This extension allowed Soliman to continue living and working in the U.S., which he did as an Uber driver and employee of Veros Health, a health company. The company confirmed that he was employed from May 2023 to August 2023, during which time he met all hiring requirements, including passing background checks.
The timeline of Soliman’s activities has drawn criticism from former FBI experts who expressed concern over the administration’s handling of border security. Jonathan Gilliam, a former FBI special agent, warned that the Biden administration’s approach to the U.S. border allowed individuals who may have harbored extremist views to enter the country under the guise of being activists. Gilliam emphasized that individuals like Soliman often present themselves as altruistic, making it difficult for authorities to detect their potential for violence. ‘They’re presenting themselves as activists, acting out for a cause for the greater good,’ Gilliam said, adding that hate for America and Israel had been present in Soliman for a period of time before he carried out the attack.
The attack has led to significant scrutiny of the U.S. immigration process and the role of the Biden administration in granting extended visas and work permits to individuals with potential radical ties. While the exact nature of Soliman’s motivations remains under investigation, the incident has raised broader questions about border security, vetting procedures, and the potential for lone-wolf radicalization within the United States. As the case unfolds, it is likely to serve as a focal point for discussions on national security policies and the challenges of preventing radicalization in a diverse and open society.