Former MLB player Kevin Youkilis reached out to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez following recent incidents in Boulder, Colorado. These incidents involved violent reactions against those advocating for the release of Hamas prisoners during a weekend event. Ocasio-Cortez described the situation as “terrifying” in a social media post.
In her statement, she expressed her concern for the victims and the Jewish community nationwide, noting the troubling rise in anti-Semitism. “We have a moral responsibility to confront this,” she added. Meanwhile, Youkilis, known primarily for his time with the Boston Red Sox, criticized Ocasio-Cortez’s response to calls for violence against Jewish individuals. He questioned her actions regarding those promoting Intifada sentiments in New York, arguing that mere virtue signaling wouldn’t suffice without a solid plan.
Youkilis also reflected on political leadership, suggesting that many politicians shy away from taking a strong stance due to fears of losing support. His comments came amidst ongoing tensions at Columbia University, where anti-Israel sentiments have been on prominent display.
On a related note, the FBI categorized recent violent acts in Boulder as a “targeted terrorist attack.” Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old man, was arrested after allegedly setting off explosives during a demonstration for the return of Israeli hostages. Reports indicated they had captured video of him during the incident, which unfolded as he attempted to advocate for the hostages.
Soliman, who initially entered the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa in 2022, had an expired visa and was living illegally in the country at the time of the attack.
A number of supporters gathered to raise awareness for the hostages, many of whom are elderly, with some even in critical condition.
