The recent killings of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., and a firebombing of pro-Israel demonstrators in Boulder, Colorado, have marked a violent escalation in U.S.-based anti-Israel activism.
Victims Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim were shot at close range by Elias Rodriguez, who reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” during the attack. Just days later, Mohammed Soliman hurled Molotov cocktails into a peaceful Colorado protest, severely burning an elderly couple. Both attackers cited the war in Gaza as motivation.
Jewish communities are on high alert, fearing these incidents signal a shift from heated rhetoric to direct violence. Officials warn these attacks may inspire copycats, echoing past waves of antisemitic violence like the 2018 Tree of Life massacre.
The pro-Palestinian protest movement has increasingly embraced militant language. Groups like Within Our Lifetime and Unity of Fields openly call for a “global intifada” and armed struggle. Some activists have glorified violence and threatened Jewish students and organizations with slogans and imagery echoing Hamas propaganda.
Though some in the movement condemn violence, mainstream messaging often includes “by any means necessary” tactics and public threats.
Authorities have also thwarted several additional plots targeting Jewish individuals and institutions in recent months.
Jewish security leaders stress the need for vigilance, noting that the progression from speech to action is now evident. “We cannot wait until the next attack,” said Richard Priem of the Community Security Service. “The danger is real, and growing.”
What was once seen as dangerous rhetoric is now manifesting as deadly action, leaving Jewish Americans more fearful—and more determined to protect their communities.
