Two Israeli embassy staff members were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington DC on Wednesday night in what police believe was a targeted attack.
The victims, a young couple, were leaving an event when they were gunned down around 9:05 p.m. local time in an area surrounded by major landmarks and government buildings, including the FBI’s Washington field office.
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Authorities identified the suspect as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago. Witnesses reported hearing him shout “Free, free Palestine” after the shooting. He was detained by museum security shortly after entering the building following the attack.
According to police, Rodriguez had been observed pacing outside before opening fire on a group of four people. The victims, whose names have not been released, were said to be planning an engagement, as confirmed by Israeli Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter.
The attack drew strong condemnation from Israeli and US officials. President Donald Trump called it an act of antisemitic violence, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio vowed to hold those responsible accountable. Israel’s UN envoy, Danny Danon, described it as a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.”
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The shooting caused lockdowns in nearby institutions, including Georgetown University, and forced the closure of several downtown streets. The Capital Jewish Museum, which recently enhanced its security due to rising concerns over antisemitism, was at the centre of the tragedy.
Officials from the Israeli embassy expressed confidence in US law enforcement to ensure the safety of Jewish communities and diplomatic personnel. Investigations are ongoing.