Local Politicians React To Antisemitic Attack In Colorado

By Idy Perl

Only weeks after two Jews were murdered in Washington D.C. for attending a Jewish event in support of Israel, Jews have yet again been targeted in a vile antisemitic attack. Local officials and politicians are reacting to the horrific attack that took place on Sunday in Boulder, Colorado, when a raging terrorist threw Molotov cocktails while yelling "Free Palestine" at a group of Jews holding a peaceful vigil for the remaining hostages being held in Gaza. 

Eight people, including seniors, sustained serious injuries and burns from the attack and had to be hospitalized. The terrorist, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, came to the U.S in 2022 on a visa and later filed for asylum. He was arrested at the scene and charged with several counts of attempted murder, and the attack is being treated as a targeted hate crime. 

"Jew Hatred is a vile disease that must be rooted out across the country and around the globe," Congressman Mike Lawler posted on X. "It’s abhorrent. Keeping the victims in my prayers. All those responsible should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law — this is a terrorist attack and should be treated as such."

"I condemn this antisemitic attack in the strongest possible terms," Senator Bill Weber said. "Throwing Molotov cocktails at Jewish people advocating for the release of hostages kidnapped by Hamas is a vile act. I trust law enforcement will pursue and prosecute this latest act of terrorism to the fullest extent of the law."

The Rockland County Legislature released a statement to condemn the attack as well, saying "We are truly outraged by the vicious terrorist attack on innocent Jews in Boulder. We want everyone harmed - physically, mentally, or emotionally - to know that we stand firmly beside you. These peaceful individuals had gathered to call for the release of the remaining October 7 hostages. Suddenly, they were targeted by a hate-driven attacker who used a makeshift flamethrower and threw Molotov cocktails at them while yelling 'free Palestine,' injuring  multiple people. Why? Because they are Jewish. That is the only reason. They were attacked simply for who they are. 

Just 11 days ago, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim were murdered in the nation’s capital. And now, once again, Jews are being assaulted while living their everyday lives. We cannot allow this to be normal. We cannot stay silent or passive. We must stand together, fiercely and without hesitation, against the hatred that endangers our communities and our future.”

Governor Kathy Hochul posted a statement on X as well, saying "I am horrified by the antisemitic terror attack in Boulder. Our hearts are with the victims and their loved ones. The global rise in antisemitism is a danger to all of us. We will continue to fight it every place it rears its ugly head to keep our Jewish communities safe." 

Illustration photo: Shutterstock