Biden-era visa policy faces backlash after Boulder attack on pro-Israel rally by Egyptian national

Suspect Entered U.S. in 2022, Received Work Permit Before Visa Expired

Authorities have identified Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national, as the suspect in a violent attack on peaceful pro-Israel demonstrators in Boulder, Colorado. Soliman, who overstayed his visa and was living illegally in the United States, allegedly used a homemade incendiary device to set fire to attendees during a rally supporting hostages held in Gaza. The incident took place Sunday outside an outdoor mall, injuring eight individuals aged 52 to 88.

Sources confirmed Soliman entered the country in August 2022 under a tourist visa that expired in February 2023. He applied for asylum and was granted a work permit by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in March 2023. That permit expired in March of this year. The Department of Homeland Security stated Soliman was unlawfully present in the U.S. at the time of the attack.

During the assault, Soliman reportedly shouted "Free Palestine" as he targeted the crowd with flames. The victims were participating in a Run for Their Lives protest, a weekly demonstration organized by the Jewish community to support Israeli hostages. One of the injured was a Holocaust survivor, prompting strong public reactions.

Federal and State Charges Under Review

Soliman is currently being held in Boulder County Jail and faces a range of charges, including attempted murder, assault with an incendiary device, and crimes against at-risk and elderly adults. Federal prosecutors are also weighing additional charges, with the Department of Justice confirming a joint investigation is underway.

"We will follow the facts and prosecute all perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law," a DOJ spokesperson said. The FBI classified the attack as a targeted act of terrorism and is leading the investigation alongside local authorities.

Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, a member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security, has demanded an inquiry into how Soliman was allowed to enter and remain in the U.S. under the current administration. In a letter to the FBI, Moreno asked for a full review of the suspect’s asylum claim, work permit approval, and any potential links to extremist organizations.

"Jewish Americans are under attack," Moreno wrote, calling on the agency to respond within 60 days. Federal filings reportedly indicate that Soliman admitted during questioning that he intended to kill “Zionist” individuals and would repeat the attack if given the chance. He is also facing federal hate crime charges.

Nationwide Security Measures Increase Ahead of Shavuot

The Boulder incident has prompted widespread responses from cities across the United States. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams ordered increased police presence at synagogues and religious sites. "We will not rest until we root out this unacceptable violence and rhetoric from our communities," Adams stated, highlighting the city's newly established Office to Combat Antisemitism.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the violence as an “atrocious affront” and announced an emergency city hall meeting to address safety during the upcoming Shavuot holiday. Miami Beach Police confirmed they have activated their Rapid Intervention Team to monitor protests and are using aerial surveillance tools to deter further attacks.

“We do respect First Amendment rights,” said Miami Beach Police Officer Christopher Bess. “But if someone deviates from peaceful assembly, they will go to jail.”

Officials nationwide continue to coordinate with federal intelligence units to assess threats and adjust protocols. Across major U.S. cities, law enforcement agencies have increased patrols, collaborated with local Jewish leaders, and reaffirmed their commitment to public safety and unity in response to rising antisemitic violence.