In a shocking incident on Friday afternoon, two people were injured and a protester was left in critical condition after attempting to set themselves on fire outside the building that houses the Israeli Consulate General in Atlanta. The incident, although not believed to be an act of terrorism, has been described as an extreme act of political protest by officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Following the incident, a Palestinian flag that was used in the protest was recovered.
During the incident, a security guard who works at the building sustained burns on the wrist and leg while trying to stop the protester. Both individuals have been taken to the hospital for treatment. The midtown Atlanta office building is home to the Israeli Consulate General and other offices. Law enforcement agencies, including the Atlanta Police, FBI, and ATF, responded to the scene.
Anat Sultan-Dadon, Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States, expressed sadness and concern over the incident. In a statement, she said, “It is tragic to see the hate and incitement toward Israel expressed in such a horrific way. The sanctity of life is our highest value. Our prayers are with the security officer who was injured while trying to prevent this tragic act.” She also expressed gratitude to the city of Atlanta’s law enforcement and first responders for their efforts to ensure safety.
The incident is currently under investigation by the police, and updates are expected as the story develops. The rising incidents of anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world are a cause for concern, as highlighted by the “Antisemitism Exposed” newsletter.
