Two staff members from the Israeli embassy were tragically shot late Wednesday outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. Witnesses reported that the assailant shouted “Free Palestine” as he approached. The victims, a young couple, had just exited an event at the museum when the shooting occurred.
Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Yethiel Reiter, shared that the couple was engaged and that the man had recently purchased an engagement ring, intending to propose in Jerusalem.
Tar Naim Cohen, a spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy, expressed confidence in local and federal law enforcement’s ability to apprehend the shooter and ensure the safety of Israeli officials and Jewish communities across the nation.
The world reacts
Prominent U.S. leaders, including President Donald Trump, alongside Israeli officials, voiced their horror and frustration over the incident. Trump condemned the attack as rooted in anti-Semitism, urging that such “horrifying DC murders must end.”
He added, “Hate and radicalism are unacceptable in America. I extend my condolences to the victims’ families. It’s heartbreaking that something like this could happen.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that authorities would pursue the perpetrator relentlessly, labeling the incident as an act of anti-Semitic violence. He assured the public that justice would be served.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondy mentioned that she was present at the scene with Judge Janine Pirro as the investigation began.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed that he was “devastated” by the situation in Washington. He described the attack as a “despicable act” targeting young members of the Israeli Embassy and conveyed condolences to their families, emphasizing solidarity with the Jewish community in D.C. and the U.S.
Herzog reiterated that both America and Israel stand united against fear and hatred.
The incident unfolds amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, coinciding with Israel’s new military campaign against Hamas in Gaza, sparked by violent attacks that began on October 7, 2023.
The Israeli ambassador to the UN characterized the shooting as “devastating anti-Semitic terrorism.” He expressed strong confidence in the U.S. government taking decisive action against those who carried out this heinous act.
