Senator Calls for FBI Inquiry into Terror Suspect’s Vetting Amid Boulder Attack

FIRST ON FOX: Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno has urged the Federal Bureau of Investigation to thoroughly investigate the potential terrorist connections of a man charged with carrying out a violent attack against a pro-Israel group in Boulder, Colorado.

In a letter addressed to FBI Director Kash Patel, Moreno expressed deep concern over the alarming increase in violence directed towards Jewish Americans. He stated, “Jewish Americans are under attack. We are witnessing the horrifying reality of that phrase played out on our streets. If Jews aren’t being murdered in cold blood in our nation’s capital, they are being burned alive by an illegal alien.”

This urgent appeal follows the recent disturbing incident in Boulder, where Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national residing illegally in the United States, was arrested after allegedly setting his victims on fire during a peaceful rally supporting Israeli hostages detained by Hamas in Gaza. Witnesses reported Soliman shouting anti-Israel slogans, including “Free Palestine.” The ages of his victims ranged from 52 to 88.

In response to the incident, Moreno commended the FBI for swiftly categorizing the violence as a “targeted terror attack.” He acknowledged their prompt action, stating that it is vital for the American public to understand how such an individual was allowed to enter and stay in the United States under the Biden administration.

Senator’s Call for Accountability

In his correspondence, Senator Moreno emphasized his duty as a member of the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs, as well as the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. He remarked that it is his responsibility to uncover the truth about how Soliman, an illegal immigrant, managed to not only enter the country but also commit acts of terrorism against Jewish Americans.

Moreno’s letter includes inquiries demanding a response from the FBI within 60 days. He seeks clarification on the terror ties of the suspect, including details on who facilitated his stay in the United States, who financed his travel abroad, and whether Soliman has any connections to extremist groups such as ISIS or Hamas.

Concerns Over Vetting Procedures

The senator also raised questions about the vetting process applied during Soliman’s entry into the country under the Biden administration. Moreno inquired about how Soliman obtained work authorization and what the basis was for any asylum claim that he may have filed.

The request for information comes amidst increasing scrutiny over the Biden administration’s refugee and immigration policies, particularly regarding how they may allow dangerous individuals to enter the nation.

Government and Public Responses

Fox News Digital reached out to the FBI for an official comment on the investigation. In a statement on Sunday, the FBI confirmed that it was treating the Boulder incident as a targeted act of terrorism. The bureau is collaborating with the Boulder Police Department to thoroughly process the crime scene, interview witnesses, and collect evidence.

Mark Michalek, the FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting communities. He stated, “Our strength as a society comes from our shared values, and our commitment to protecting one another. Any attempt to divide us through fear or harm has no place in Boulder, Colorado, or anywhere in our nation.”

Details Emerge About the Suspect

Federal court documents indicate that Soliman, now facing a federal hate crime charge, confessed during an interview that he intended to kill all “Zionist” individuals and had been plotting the attack for an entire year. Furthermore, he reportedly claimed that he would carry out the attack again if given the opportunity.

Soliman had entered the United States on a tourist visa during the Biden administration. After overstaying his visa, he filed for asylum and was granted work authorization, which expired at the end of March 2023. His case illustrates serious flaws in the immigration system, heightening concerns among lawmakers.

Future Implications for Immigration Policy

The ramifications of Soliman’s attack and the subsequent call for investigation by Senator Moreno may prompt more intense discussions regarding immigration policies and vetting procedures. Lawmakers are likely to scrutinize how individuals with potentially harmful intentions can enter the United States.

This attack raises critical questions about national security and the measures necessary to protect American citizens from threats posed by illegal immigrants and extremists. The upcoming investigation by the FBI could reveal essential details that may reshape current approaches to immigration and counter-terrorism.

As the national conversation continues regarding the safety of American communities, Moreno’s insistence on transparency and accountability is prompting other lawmakers to consider similar inquiries into how the administration handles individuals with questionable backgrounds.

Moving Forward Together

Understanding the implications of this attack and addressing the flaws in the immigration process remain vital for lawmakers. Moreno’s push for a comprehensive investigation may serve as a catalyst for broader changes aimed at securing the nation. As communities rally together against acts of violence, it is essential for leaders to ensure that safety and security are prioritized.

Effective legislative measures will require cooperation between governmental agencies, community leaders, and the public, creating a united front to combat terrorism. Only by addressing these critical issues can the nation hope to safeguard its citizens against future threats.