Two Israeli Embassy Staff Killed in Washington, Shooter Shouted “Free Palestine”
A shocking incident took place near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., where two staff members from the Israeli embassy were shot and killed on Wednesday night. The victims were a young couple who were about to get engaged, according to Israeli officials.
The suspect, 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, was arrested shortly after the attack. While being taken into custody, he shouted “Free Palestine,” which raised concerns that the attack may be linked to antisemitism and ongoing tensions related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Police say Rodriguez was seen walking nervously outside the museum before he pulled out a gun and fired at the couple. Emergency services were called at 9:08 p.m., but by the time they arrived, both victims were already dead. After the shooting, the suspect briefly entered the museum but was quickly caught by security guards. Police also recovered the weapon used in the crime.
The incident happened just across the street from the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which has added seriousness to the case. Authorities are now investigating it as a possible hate crime.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the shooting, calling it an act of hate and radicalism. He wrote on his social media platform Truth Social, “Such terrible acts must stop now. There is no place for hatred in America.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also spoke out, calling the attack cowardly and promising that those responsible will be punished. “We strongly condemn this antisemitic violence,” he said.
Israeli officials are in close contact with U.S. authorities. An Israeli embassy spokesperson said the victims were attending a Jewish cultural event and were shot at close range. Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that both Israel and the U.S. will stand together against hate and terrorism. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar added that Israel will not bow to terror and raised concerns over rising threats against Israeli diplomats around the world.
The investigation is still ongoing. This tragic event has once again raised alarms about the safety of diplomatic staff and rising global tensions.
