Two staff members from Israel’s embassy in the United States were tragically shot and killed outside a Jewish museum in Washington, DC. The incident took place around 9 PM on Wednesday, just outside the Capital Jewish Museum.
The victims have been identified as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim. They were described by Israel’s ambassador to the US as a lovely couple who were planning to get married soon. Just days before the attack, Lischinsky had purchased an engagement ring, intending to propose next week in Jerusalem.
Authorities have arrested a suspect, 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago. According to police, he was seen pacing outside the museum before he approached a group of people and opened fire with a handgun, hitting both victims. During his arrest, Rodriguez reportedly chanted “Free, free, Palestine.” The police have not confirmed a motive for the shooting.
Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser condemned the violence, stating that her administration would not accept any acts of terrorism or hate in the city. She emphasized the need for community solidarity against anti-Semitism. The American Jewish Committee, which had hosted an event at the museum, expressed its devastation over the violence.
US President Donald Trump expressed his condolences and labeled the attack as rooted in anti-Semitism. He stated that hatred and radicalism have no place in the United States. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced that federal authorities are investigating the incident.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted with shock and directed Israeli missions worldwide to enhance their security measures. Security expert Richard Weitz described the attack as a carefully planned operation, suggesting that the shooter had targeted the victims intentionally.
In response to the shooting, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the act, calling it heinous. The tragedy raises concerns about the safety of diplomats and the growing threat of anti-Semitism in the US.