The Voice News:Two staff members from Israel’s embassy in the United States were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, on Wednesday night.
The Metropolitan Police Department reported that the shooting occurred around 9pm (01:00 GMT Thursday). A suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, Illinois, has been taken into custody.
Police Chief Pamela A. Smith said the suspect was seen pacing near the museum before approaching a group of four people, drawing a handgun, and opening fire. The two victims died at the scene.
While in custody, Rodriguez reportedly chanted “Free, free, Palestine.” Authorities have not confirmed a motive but are continuing their investigation.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser condemned the act, stating, “We will not tolerate violence or hate in our city. We stand united against antisemitism and terrorism.”
Israeli Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, said the victims were a couple planning to marry soon. “The young man had just bought a ring and intended to propose next week in Jerusalem,” he shared.
The American Jewish Committee, which hosted an event at the museum, expressed deep sorrow over the attack.
US President Donald Trump also responded, calling the shooting “clearly an act of antisemitism” and stating that “Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA.”
US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pamela Bondi both confirmed that federal authorities are investigating the incident. Bondi, present at the scene, said she was “praying for the victims.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered increased security at Israeli missions worldwide following the attack.
Security analyst Richard Weitz described the shooting as a “well-planned assassination,” noting that the suspect had observed the area before carrying out the attack. He added that lower-level diplomatic staff often lack formal security protection.
Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon condemned the incident as an “act of anti-Semitic terrorism,” declaring that harming the Jewish community is a “red line.”