A shocking shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. has claimed the lives of two Israeli embassy staff members. The FBI believes it was a targeted act of violence, and officials are calling it an anti-Semitic terrorist attack.
Victims Identified as Israeli Embassy Staff
The victims were identified as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, two staff members from the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. According to Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, the pair were attending a Jewish conference hosted by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) when they were shot outside the museum on Wednesday night.
“They were about to get engaged,” said Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, adding that Lischinsky had bought a ring and was planning to propose in Jerusalem the following week.
Suspect Shouted “Free Palestine” After Shooting
The suspect, Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old man from Chicago, was arrested at the scene. After being taken into custody, he reportedly shouted “Free, free Palestine,” and led police to the location of the gun used in the shooting.
Officials say he tried to enter the museum after the shooting but was stopped by event security.
FBI: Attack Was Likely Targeted
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated the incident is being treated as a targeted attack. FBI officers responded quickly since the shooting happened near their Washington Field Office. The FBI is working closely with DC Metro Police and other federal agencies.
Reactions from Leaders and Officials
The incident has led to strong reactions across the globe. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the shooting “a heinous anti-Semitic murder.” He also ordered tighter security at Israeli missions worldwide.
U.S. officials, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, condemned the attack. Mayor Bowser declared, “We will not tolerate hate or terrorism in our city.”
President Donald Trump also commented on his platform, Truth Social, calling the killings “horrible” and demanding an end to antisemitism in the U.S.
Victims Were Not Diplomats but Worked Closely with the Embassy
While they were not diplomats, both Lischinsky and Milgrim were active staff members at the embassy. Lischinsky worked as a researcher in the political department, and Milgrim helped organise U.S. delegations visiting Israel.
Community and International Support
Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, expressed deep sorrow and said the organisation is fully focused on supporting the families of the victims. Israeli and U.S. officials, including Danny Danon (Israel’s UN Ambassador) and Attorney General Pam Bondi, promised a full investigation and justice for the victims.
No Ongoing Threat to Public
Authorities confirmed there is no active threat to the public. The suspect is currently being questioned, and officials are working to understand his full motives and background.