Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 2 June 2025

These updates are shared to help raise the situational awareness of Faith-Based organizations to best defend against and mitigate the impacts from all-hazards threats including physical security, cybersecurity, and natural disasters. 

What to know about the attack at Boulder rally for Israeli hostages

On June 1^st a man attacked a peaceful pro-Israel rally in Boulder, Colorado, using incendiary devices and a makeshift flamethrower, injuring eight people. The attacker, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” during the assault and is currently hospitalized after being apprehended at the scene. The victims, aged 52 to 88, include a Holocaust survivor who is in critical condition. The event was organized by “Run For Their Lives” to raise awareness about hostages held by Hamas. Authorities, including the FBI, are investigating the incident as a targeted act of terrorism. Colorado officials and Jewish leaders have strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing its impact on the community and calling for unity against hate.

Analyst Comments: This attack reflects the alarming trend of global tensions manifesting in local acts of violence, particularly against Jewish communities. The use of incendiary weapons at a peaceful demonstration underscores the growing boldness of ideologically motivated individuals. Faith and advocacy groups now face increasing risks, making coordination with law enforcement and enhanced security measures is important. FB-ISAO resource library has resources on informing preparedness activities.

Elizabeth resident arrested for antisemitic threats against local public official

Edward Arthur Owens Jr., a resident of Pennsylvania, was arrested by the FBI and charged with transmitting antisemitic threats via social media against a local public official. The threatening message included a reference to “109 countries,” an antisemitic trope suggesting Jews have been expelled from numerous nations, used to promote hatred. Prosecutors have requested Owens’ detention pending trial, citing him as a danger to the community, with a hearing scheduled for June 5. The targeted official, whose identity remains confidential for security reasons, expressed heightened concern for personal and staff safety, especially considering recent violent incidents against Jewish individuals. They emphasized the irrational nature of such threats and the need for a change in public discourse to prevent hate-fueled violence. 

Related Article: Pennsylvania man accused of telling official ‘go back to Israel or better yet, exterminate yourself’

Analyst Comments: This case highlights the growing concern over hate-fueled threats targeting public officials, especially those rooted in antisemitism. It reflects a broader pattern of online extremism translating into real-world dangers. Faith-based organizations should remain vigilant and aware of potential threats. Particularly as places of worship and community leaders have become targets of hate-driven rhetoric and violence. It is important to having open communication with law enforcement, have security measures, and educate staff to report suspicious behavior. FB-ISAO resource library has resources on securing facilities and people.

G4 Geomagnetic Storm Watch in Effect for June 2^nd

The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for June 2, 2025, following a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun on May 30. The CME is anticipated to arrive at Earth later on Sunday, June 1, potentially leading to immediate geomagnetic disturbances with the potential for G3 (Strong) levels, and a chance for G4. Conditions are expected to intensify as the CME progresses, with G4 levels becoming more possible on Monday, June 2. Geomagnetic storm levels will likely begin subsiding by Tuesday, June 3, with G1-G2 (Minor-Moderate) levels still possible. Confidence in an Earth-arrival component to this CME is good; however, the timing and intensity are more uncertain.

Analyst Comments:  This severe geomagnetic storm watch signals the ongoing volatility of solar activity during the current solar cycle, highlighting the increasing need for space weather preparedness. Events like this pose significant risks to modern infrastructure, including satellite operations, navigation systems, and power grids, particularly at higher latitudes. The possibility of visible auroras at lower latitudes is a striking visual reminder of the Sun’s influence on Earth but also underscores the importance of real-time monitoring and forecasting. 

CISA’s Conflict Prevention Webinars

Introduction to Conflict Prevention Techniques:

• Date: June 11^th
• Time 1:30pm-2:00 PM ET

This webinar introduces conflict prevention techniques and resources that can be used to empower individuals to augment traditional security prevention and mitigation efforts.

Conflict Prevention Strategies to Deter Targeted Violence:

• Date: June 25^th, 2025
• Time: 1:30-2:30 PM ET

This webinar provides a more in-depth- discussion on tangible de-escalation actions that can be used to effectively diffuse a volatile situation.