Two Israeli Embassy staff members were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. The attack, described as antisemitic by authorities, has drawn strong condemnation from President Donald Trump and U.S. officials. A federal investigation is underway.
Shooting Outside Capital Jewish Museum Claims Two Lives
On Wednesday, two staff members from the Israeli Embassy were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. The gunman, reportedly shouting “Free, free Palestine” upon arrest, opened fire on a group of four people exiting the museum, according to the D.C. Metropolitan Police.
The victims, whose identities have not yet been publicly released, were attending an event at the museum at the time of the attack.
President Trump Condemns Antisemitic Violence
President Donald Trump responded to the incident with a firm condemnation of antisemitism and political violence. Writing on Truth Social, he stated:
“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA.”
Trump extended condolences to the victims’ families and reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting the Jewish community.
Homeland Security, Federal Agencies Launch Investigation
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that federal authorities are now investigating the incident. Attorney General Pam Bondi, along with interim U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, arrived at the scene shortly after the local police report was made public.
Bondi emphasized that she had spoken to President Trump several times regarding the incident, adding that Pirro will lead the prosecution of the suspect.
Details of the Suspect and Arrest
According to DC Police Chief Pamela A. Smith, the suspect — tentatively identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez — fired at a small group outside the museum, hitting two of them fatally. He then entered the building and was subdued by security personnel.
While being detained, Rodriguez reportedly shouted political slogans in support of Palestine. Authorities believe the act was motivated by antisemitic ideology.
Reactions from Israel and U.S. Lawmakers
Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, called the incident “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism,” urging U.S. authorities to take firm action. He warned that violence against the Jewish community crosses a serious red line.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also condemned the shooting, calling it “a sickening and horrific instance of antisemitism,” and expressing support for the victims’ families.
Broader Context of Rising Antisemitic Attacks
This attack follows a string of violent incidents targeting Jewish individuals in the U.S. In April, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home was set on fire while he and his family were inside. The suspect in that case also expressed political motives related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The recent shooting adds to growing concerns over domestic extremism and targeted hate crimes in the U.S., particularly involving religious and ethnic communities.
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