A pro-Israel humanitarian organization in Boulder, which faced a tragic firebomb attack in June resulting in the death of 82-year-old Karen Diamond and injuries to 15 others, is now grappling with renewed fears. Insiders have indicated that some city council candidates have labeled the group’s leaders as “Nazis,” branding them as “morally hollow” agitators.
The local chapter, named Run for Their Lives, expressed to the Post that things escalated after the attack, attributed to Egyptian citizen Mohamed Sabri Soliman. Attendee Aaron Brooks reflected on the atmosphere during their weekly walks, mentioning how the presence of a “Free Palestinian” sign echoed sentiments shared by the attacker.
“Our activities have to change locations due to protests led by candidates from the city council, who have called our leader a Nazi in a video,” one member remarked, underscoring the ongoing tensions.
Citing safety concerns, the group decided that their upcoming walks would take place in private venues, aiming to honor hostages without harassment. A Boulder council candidate, Aaron Stone, has been criticized for propagating anti-Israel sentiments, labeling the Israeli support as racially motivated.
Participant Ellis emphasized the ongoing difficulties they face, stressing that their community is now dealing with aggressive individuals who aim to intimidate them. “These people seem morally devoid. They don’t seem to grasp the weight of their actions,” she said.
Despite the traumatic experiences, survivors feel re-victimized. Elise noted that their protests are systematically portrayed as extremist. “They’re trying to depict us as perpetrators, organized to intimidate us. They say anyone supporting Israel is a target,” she explained.
Jewish leaders in Denver, like Milli Kornfeld, expressed disappointment, highlighting how instead of support, they are facing further harassment from even candidates in Boulder. Kornfeld emphasized the need to confront this rising anti-Semitism.
In a statement, Aaron Stone condemned the violence of June but remarked on the hypocrisy of supporters waving Israeli flags while lamenting attacks. He frustratingly posited that those advocating for Israel deserve derogatory labels due to their perceived complicity in violence.
However, the group remains undeterred. “Even if threats force us into hiding, we’ll continue our mission to advocate for those suffering under Hamas,” Brooks stated. Amal added, “We won’t be silenced or intimidated. We’ll find ways to be strategic in our actions.”
