On Sunday, officials reported that Mohamed Sabri Soliman allegedly targeted peaceful pro-Israel demonstrations in what has been labeled a terrorist attack that left 12 individuals injured.
Soliman’s path to the United States began when he entered the country on a B1/B2 visa in August 2022, initially scheduled to depart by February 2023. However, the Biden administration extended his permission to work until March 2025, just two months before the incident in Boulder, Colorado.
According to statements made to law enforcement, Soliman expressed that he aimed to disrupt the “Zionist group” in Boulder, claiming he wanted to protect what he described as “our land,” referring to “Palestine.” He allegedly mentioned that he had been planning the attack for a year, specifically waiting until his daughter graduated.
Here’s a timeline of Soliman’s journey in the US:
August 27, 2022: Arrival in Los Angeles
Soliman arrived at Los Angeles International Airport on August 27, 2022, on a B1/B2 visa, as reported by sources.
September 29, 2022: Claims of Asylum
Sources indicated that Soliman had likely made claims for asylum through the US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
February 26, 2023: Visa Expiry
Though his B1/B2 visa was set to expire on February 26, 2023, Soliman remained in the country.
March 29, 2023: Work Permission Granted
On March 29, 2023, the USCIS granted him work authorization lasting about two years.
Spring 2023: Employment with Uber
In spring 2023, Soliman began working as an Uber driver, according to the company, which stated he met all necessary requirements, such as passing background checks and holding a valid Social Security number. A neighbor noted that he was often absent due to working hard.
May 2023: Job at Veros Health
In May, Soliman secured a position in the accounting division at Veros Health. A spokesperson confirmed he had gone through the hiring process with a professional employer organization and had a valid work visa at that time.
August 2023: Departure from Veros Health
Veros Health stated that Soliman’s employment ended in August 2023, confirming his tenure from May to August.
March 2025: End of Work Approval
Soliman’s work authorization, granted under the Biden administration, concluded in March 2025.
June 1, 2025: Molotov Cocktail Attack
Soliman was accused of throwing a Molotov cocktail at a Pro Israel group while protesting the release of Hamas hostages, resulting in injuries to 12 people.
He faces severe charges including first-degree murder and various felonies involving explosives. Former FBI agent Jonathan Gilliam expressed concern over the lack of thorough screening of Soliman upon his entry to the US. He noted, “The borders have been wide open for over four years.” Gilliam remarked that individuals like Soliman often disguise their intentions as activism, acting for broader causes while harboring deeper animosities.
He suggested that Soliman had likely held onto hate for a considerable time before deciding to act. “He comes from a background where hatred is ingrained,” Gilliam explained. “He had been planning this for a year, and that hatred brewed within him.”
