The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, has sparked an outcry and raised questions about the use of incendiary weapons. A suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, was arrested following the incident, which took place at a ‘Run for Their Lives’ event where participants were advocating for the release of hostages in Gaza. The attack resulted in eight identified victims, though none of the victims have passed away, according to the Boulder Police Department. The suspect, during the attack, was heard shouting ‘Free Palestine,’ which has added layers to the incident’s complexity.
According to Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn, the suspect had used Molotov cocktails, an incendiary weapon made from a glass bottle filled with flammable fluid and a lit cloth fuse. When thrown against a hard surface, the bottle breaks, causing the wick to ignite the cocktail’s liquid and its vaporized fuel. This weapon was reportedly used by the suspect to cause injuries and damage. West Point Professor Sean Watts provided a detailed explanation of the weapon’s composition and its use, highlighting its potential impact as a tool of violence.
The incident also brought attention to the role of the United States military in the context of such weapons. Earlier this year, some U.S. soldiers were shown learning how to make Molotov cocktails from Estonian soldiers, leading to fiery explosions when the devices were used. A video from ‘Dvidshub’ captured the process, emphasizing the weapon’s destructive potential. The Boulder terror attack has further intensified the political discourse around immigration policies, with calls to reverse Biden-era policies following the incident.
As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the implications of this attack. The use of incendiary weapons like Molotov cocktails has ignited discussions about public safety, the role of rhetoric such as ‘Free Palestine’ in such incidents, and the broader implications for national security policies. The incident underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of violence and ensuring public safety in the face of such threats.