Recent lawsuits have revealed that what was previously viewed as anti-Israel protests are, in fact, part of a larger, organized effort linked to Hamas, necessitating a more aggressive legal response. The escalation of anti-Israel rhetoric and violence, from Europe and the Middle East, has now extended to the United States, moving beyond campus demonstrations to include acts of vigilantism and targeted violence.
In one particularly disturbing incident in Boulder, Colorado, a man shouting “Free Palestine” used Molotov cocktails to set fire to a group of peaceful demonstrators at an event supporting the return of Israeli hostages, resulting in the event being set ablaze. Shortly after, two Israeli Embassy staff members were murdered outside a Jewish museum, with the perpetrator claiming the act was done “for Palestine, for Gaza.” In another incident, a home in Pennsylvania was set on fire with the family inside because of the governor’s “Jewish” identity and his policies toward Palestinians, underscoring the growing risk of domestic terrorism linked to Hamas ideology.
These incidents, while alarming, are part of a coordinated campaign linked to Hamas, as evidenced by new lawsuits filed by the organization representing the victims. The so-called “protests” that have been prevalent on campuses over the past two years are not just the actions of students but the result of a well-structured effort, involving professionals who have orchestrated the violence and terrorism against Jews and Israelis. The previous “protests” in the 1960s do not compare to the current situation, where the same anti-Israel rhetoric has been weaponized to incite violence with the support of organized groups.
Given the scale and organization of these efforts, there is a clear call to action, urging for a shift in strategy to combat these attacks. This includes not only holding institutions accountable but also targeting the individuals and groups behind these acts of violence. This effort encompasses dismantling the support systems funding and planning these campaigns, an approach that mirrors the tactics used against groups like the Muslim Brotherhood and Students for Justice in Palestine, which have been identified as key enablers of the violence.