“They Tried to Silence Me”: Ilhan Omar Survives Attack During Minneapolis Speech

MINNEAPOLIS — U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar escaped unharmed after a man attempted to attack her during a public speech in Minneapolis, authorities and witnesses said.

The incident occurred as Omar, a Minnesota Democrat, was addressing a crowd at a public gathering focused on recent developments in the state. According to witnesses, a white male suspect rushed toward Omar holding a syringe-like object containing an unidentified liquid and appeared to attempt to spray it toward her face.

A member of Omar’s security detail quickly intervened, restraining the suspect and moving him away from the congresswoman. The swift response prevented any physical harm to Omar, but the incident caused panic and fear among attendees, police said.

Omar had been speaking about alleged abuses by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), sharply criticizing the agency over recent enforcement actions in Minnesota. During her remarks, she condemned what she described as killings and human rights violations linked to ICE operations and called for accountability from senior officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, urging her resignation. Omar warned she would pursue impeachment efforts in Congress if Noem remained in office.

Minneapolis police confirmed the suspect was taken into custody at the scene and remains under investigation. Authorities said they are working to identify the substance in the syringe and determine the suspect’s motive. No charges were immediately announced.

While officials have not publicly linked the suspect to any group, the attack comes amid heightened threats against Omar, who has faced repeated harassment and threats in recent years over her political positions and advocacy for immigrant and minority rights.

The incident drew strong reactions from political leaders and civil rights advocates, renewing calls for increased security for members of Congress. Omar later said she was safe and would continue her work, vowing that intimidation would not silence her or deter her advocacy for her constituents and human rights.

GAROWE ONLINE