**FBI Investigates Firebomb Attack at Pro-Israel Gathering in Colorado as ‘Targeted Terror Incident’**
United States authorities are treating a violent incident in Boulder, Colorado, as an act of targeted terror after Molotov cocktails were hurled at a group supporting Israeli hostages. The attack, which occurred on Sunday afternoon at the popular Pearl Street Mall, resulted in multiple injuries and prompted a substantial law enforcement response.
The incident unfolded around 5:20pm local time, at a peaceful event termed “Run For Their Lives,” which aimed to express solidarity with Israeli hostages still captive in Gaza. This gathering was not designated as a protest, according to its organisers, but rather as a symbolic walk urging the release of those held. Boulder police swiftly evacuated several blocks following the attack, and the area around Pearl Street and 13th Street was cordoned off. Law enforcement confirmed that several individuals had been injured.
FBI Director Kash Patel addressed the public shortly after the attack, confirming the nature of the assault as a deliberate act of terror. “We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available,” Patel stated. He further insisted that “hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable,” reflecting a resolute tone as investigations continue.
Eyewitnesses, speaking to local news outlets, described scenes of chaos as an individual lobbed firebombs towards attendees of the walk. Videos shared on social media in the immediate aftermath captured the commotion, with emergency teams rapidly responding to tend to those harmed. Boulder Police have since instructed the public to avoid the area spanning Walnut and Pine Streets while investigations remain active.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released, was reportedly apprehended at the scene. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the suspect acted alone or if further arrests are expected. The motivation behind the attack is being closely scrutinised, particularly given the current geopolitical tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis released a public statement indicating he was “closely monitoring” developments in Boulder, expressing concern for all affected and reaffirming the state’s commitment to security for all its residents. Local officials also echoed this sentiment, stressing that acts inciting division or targeting specific communities will not be tolerated.
The “Run For Their Lives” group, which arranged Sunday’s event, reiterated in a statement that their intent was peaceful. “This is not a protest; it is a peaceful walk to show solidarity with the hostages and their families, and a plea for their release,” the organisers clarified. Such expressions of unity, their message continued, should not be met with violence.
Photographs emerging from the aftermath reveal a heavy emergency services presence, with at least one injured participant being carried away on a stretcher. The exact number of casualties has yet to be officially confirmed, but Boulder police have cited at least seven people injured. Residents in the area have been left stunned, with community leaders urging calm as authorities continue to piece together the sequence of events.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident has sparked fresh discussions in the US about the volatility of political expression and the security of peaceful gatherings. Broader concerns about potential escalation in hate-motivated violence are likely to remain in focus as further details become public. For now, both federal and local officials have called for vigilance, unity, and restraint while they work to better understand the motives behind the shocking attack and to ensure the safety of all Colorado residents.