A demonstrator in Atlanta, Georgia, set self on fire outside the Israeli Consulate General building on Friday amid heightened tensions in the U.S. related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The protester suffered severe burns and is in critical condition.
A security guard was also injured while attempting to intervene. Both are undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital.
Authorities believe it was likely an “act of extreme political protest,” not connected to terrorism.A Palestinian flag was found at the scene. The protester’s identity and intended message remain unknown.
This incident coincides with protests over the treatment of Palestinian civilians amid Israeli military actions in Gaza.
