ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Two staff members from the Israeli embassy in Washington DC were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum late on Wednesday evening. The tragic incident has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns over rising antisemitism in the United States.
Victims Identified as Young Couple
The Metropolitan Police Department identified the suspect as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago. Authorities say Rodriguez opened fire on a group of four individuals shortly after 9:00 PM local time, fatally shooting the young couple, both of whom were employees at the Israeli embassy.
According to Israeli Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, the victims were a couple planning to get engaged. The male victim had recently purchased an engagement ring with the intention of proposing during a trip to Jerusalem. “This is a devastating loss,” Ambassador Leiter said, describing the victims as “full of life and hope.”
Suspect’s Arrest and Statements
Rodriguez was apprehended inside the museum shortly after the shooting, where he was stopped by security personnel. During his arrest, he allegedly shouted, “Free, free Palestine.” Law enforcement has not yet confirmed whether Rodriguez had any links to extremist groups, though authorities are treating the incident as deliberate.
The shooting took place in a heavily secured area of the US capital, surrounded by federal buildings, museums, and the FBI’s Washington field office. The incident prompted a significant police response, with several downtown streets cordoned off and nearby Georgetown University placed under temporary lockdown.
Official Reactions and Condemnations
US President Donald Trump quickly condemned the attack, calling it “an act of antisemitism” in a post on Truth Social. “These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA,” Trump wrote.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio also condemned the shooting, describing it as a “brazen act of cowardly, antisemitic violence,” and vowed justice for the victims.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, calling it a “despicable act of hatred.” He added, “America and Israel will stand united in defense of our people and shared values. Terror and hate will not break us.”
Growing Concerns Over Antisemitism
The shooting has heightened concerns among Jewish communities across the US, where there has been an increase in security threats against Jewish institutions. Beatrice Gurwitz, executive director of the Capital Jewish Museum, had earlier spoken about the rising challenges. “We recognize the threats associated with our mission and exhibitions,” she said, emphasizing the museum’s commitment to being a safe space for all.
A spokesperson for the Israeli embassy confirmed the deaths of the two staff members, but assured the public that none of the other diplomats were harmed in the attack. “We have full faith in law enforcement at the local and federal levels,” said embassy spokesman Tal Naim Cohen.
Federal authorities have now taken over the investigation, and Rodriguez remains in custody. No additional information about his background or the motive for the shooting has been released at this time.
Calls for Unity and Vigilance
The tragedy has prompted leaders from Jewish communities in the US to call for heightened vigilance and unity in the face of escalating threats. JoJo Kalin, a board member of the American Jewish Committee, expressed the sentiment, saying, “We won’t be deterred. This tragedy reminds us of how vital it is to continue standing up for peace, dialogue, and security for all.”
As the investigation continues, the shooting serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges faced by Jewish institutions in the US and the need for increased protection and solidarity.
