Man throws incendiary devices at rally supporting Israeli hostages in US Several burned / Photo / Video

Several people were injured in Boulder, Colorado, after a man reportedly threw incendiary devices at a gathering in support of Israeli hostages, in what federal officials are calling a “targeted terror attack.”

The incident occurred during the “Run for Their Lives” rally — a weekly event held by Jewish community members to raise awareness for hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attacks in Israel, Caliber.Az reports, citing US media.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which confirmed the rally was the target, said the attack took place just ahead of Shavuot, a major Jewish holiday.

Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn said: “When we arrived, we encountered multiple victims … with injuries consistent with burns.”

Witnesses reported that the assailant hurled bottles believed to contain flammable liquid, which exploded into flames upon impact. The number of devices used remains unclear, according to law enforcement sources cited by CNN.

At least two people were hospitalised. The suspect, who has not yet been publicly identified, is in custody. Federal charges are expected, a source familiar with the investigation told CNN. FBI agents and federal prosecutors are considering terrorism-related charges but are also assessing potential mental health factors.

While Boulder police said it was too early to determine a motive, the FBI and the National Counterterrorism Center are treating the incident as a possible act of ideologically motivated violence.

FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on social media: “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.”

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said the attack is “being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence.”

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard confirmed that federal and local law enforcement agencies are coordinating on the investigation.

President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation, according to the White House. Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, labelled the attack “terrorism” and called for a tougher global response. “The time for statements is over. It is time for concrete action to be taken against the instigators wherever they may be,” he said.

The local Jewish community expressed shock and sadness in a joint statement to CNN: “We are saddened and heartbroken to learn that an incendiary device was thrown at walkers at the Run for Their Lives walk on Pearl Street as they were raising awareness for the hostages still held in Gaza.”

Colorado Governor Jared Polis said he is “closely monitoring the situation.” He added: “Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable. While details emerge, the state works with local and federal law enforcement to support this investigation. More information will be provided as it becomes available.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev