Since 2023, the organization Run for Their Lives has been active in organizing global events to advocate for the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas. However, the rally in Boulder, Colorado marked the first time the group encountered violence. During this demonstration, which took place at a lively pedestrian mall, a man armed with a makeshift flamethrower and shouting “Free Palestine” attacked the participants, resulting in injuries to 12 individuals.
One of the injured was a Holocaust survivor, who chose to remain anonymous publicly. Ginger Delgado, on behalf of the victim’s family, shared these details. The police have been unable to gather immediate information on the other 11 victims. As per Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn, the victims, aged between 52 and 88, endured injuries ranging from minor to serious.
The attack in Boulder occurred amid escalated tensions from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has led to a surge in antisemitic incidents across the United States. Just a week prior to this incident, a person who also shouted “Free Palestine” was charged with the murder of two Israeli embassy staff outside a museum in Washington.
Despite the fear for safety, supporters of Israel and the campaign for their hostages have pledged to continue their demonstrations. The assailant in Boulder admitted to orchestrating the attack for a year, motivated by a goal “to kill all Zionist people,” referencing the movement supporting the establishment and maintenance of a Jewish state in Israel. Identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the suspect, according to an FBI affidavit, confessed to his intentions and expressed willingness to attack again. Disguised as a gardener, he targeted the demonstrators as they displayed U.S. and Israeli flags and recited names of hostages held in Gaza.
Run for Their Lives commenced in October 2023 after Hamas militants attacked Israel, claiming the lives of 1,200 people and capturing 250 others. The organization has established 230 chapters worldwide to raise awareness about the hostages’ plight through weekly walks. One of their leaders, Shira Weiss, emphasized the group’s focus on humanity above all else.
In Boulder, the group marches every weekend for 18 minutes, symbolizing the Hebrew word “chai,” or “life.” Participants include community members from various backgrounds, both Jewish and non-Jewish. Rachel Amaru, the local chapter leader, had discussions with police regarding the events and had anticipated the need for additional security following a separate attack in Washington. Consequently, organizers plan to seek police escorts for future events.
Following the attack, federal and state prosecutors have charged Soliman with hate crimes and attempted murder. As an Egyptian national reportedly residing in the U.S. illegally, Soliman faces other charges related to the incendiary devices, with potential for further federal charges. Imagery from the incident in Boulder, situated 30 miles from Denver, captured the chaos as victims were engulfed in flames, with one person visibly burning on the ground before being assisted by bystanders using water to extinguish the fire.
As a result of the attack, six victims were hospitalized, with three still receiving treatment at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital. Others were assisted at the scene. The assault coincided with the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, celebrating the Torah’s revelation at Mount Sinai. Community leaders from the University of Colorado extended prayers for the victims while encouraging people to maintain the spirit of the holiday.
After the incident, a hostage-family group expressed solidarity with the Colorado chapter, planning to have family members participate in upcoming events. Scheduled on the same day as the Boulder Jewish Festival, this occasion serves as a testament to the community’s resilience and unity.
Past event participant Susanna Speier recounted adversities faced during demonstrations, noting adversarial reactions in Denver. University of Colorado student Caleb Loewengart emphasized the charitable nature of Run for Their Lives, underscoring its foundation in love, while reflecting on his upbringing within the supportive Jewish community.
Loewengart was absent from the recent Boulder gathering but acknowledged the recurring involvement of community members and expressed his sorrow and determination despite newfound fears. Co-organizer Miri Kornfeld voiced concerns about the pervasive threat of antisemitism beyond the Middle East, calling for solidarity and decisive action from officials and citizens worldwide to combat the rising tide of hate.