“Depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism”
On Wednesday evening, two employees of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, were shot and murdered near the Jewish Museum, in an event that Israeli officials labeled as “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.” Authorities apprehended a 30-year-old man from Chicago, named Elias Rodriguez, who witnesses claim yelled “Free, free Palestine” while being arrested.
The shooting took place only a few steps away from the FBI’s Washington Field Office, situated in Northwest DC. US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the fatalities in a post on X, indicating that an active investigation is in progress and that federal agencies are working alongside local law enforcement to establish the complete details.
“Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington DC. We are actively investigating and working to get more information to share. Please pray for the families of the victims. We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice” Noem posted on X.
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The names of the victims have not been disclosed, but regional reports suggest that both persons were connected to the Israeli diplomatic mission in the U.S. The Israeli Embassy has recognized the incident but has not provided a statement other than verifying that the ambassador was absent during the attack.
President Trump condemned the killings
US President Donald Trump, addressing the issue on Truth Social, denounced the murders by stating, “These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the assault as a “despicable act of hatred” and voiced support for Jewish communities in the United States. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims who were killed. Terror and hate will not defeat us,” he stated.
The police in Washington DC arrived at the location soon after the shooting was announced. A spokesperson for the police stated that officers were establishing a secure perimeter around the museum while looking for witnesses and any surveillance videos.
Reports indicate that the Capital Jewish Museum, which began operating at its present site in 2023, was holding an event organized by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) when the shooting occurred. The CEO of the AJC, Ted Deutch, released a statement, expressing, “We are heartbroken that an unimaginable act of violence occurred outside the venue.”
