Two staff members from the Israeli embassy were shot and killed at close range as they left an event in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night. A Palestinian individual from Chicago reportedly shouted “Free, Free Palestine!” following his arrest.
According to FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, FBI officers stationed at the Washington Field Office responded immediately to provide assistance after the shooting. Unfortunately, despite their efforts and those of the Columbia District Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, both victims succumbed to their injuries.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry described the incident as a “brutal terrorist attack” and identified the victims as Jaron Lisinsky, a research assistant in the political department, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, an aide who had organized the trip to Israel.
“Israeli diplomats and representatives around the world are pivotal in our diplomatic efforts. We will not be deterred by fear and will continue our mission globally, committed to representing Israel with pride.”
The U.S. ambassador to Israel shared a poignant note, mentioning that the couple had recently gotten engaged, having purchased a ring in Jerusalem. They were described as a beautiful couple.
The ambassador stressed the resilience of both Israelis and Americans, stating that they will overcome the moral collapse of those who believe they can achieve political objectives through murder.
“We are witnessing the horrific costs of anti-Semitism and extreme agitation against Israel.”
Earlier in the evening, the ambassador mentioned a conversation with Attorney General Pam Bondy, who relayed that President Donald Trump’s administration would do everything possible to fight the hatred directed at Jews and against the Israeli state.
Following this tragic event, numerous Western leaders and diplomats expressed their condolences and solidarity with Israel. Trump also addressed the murders, stating that such anti-Semitic violence in the U.S. must end.
Trump criticized the victim’s family’s treatment during this tragic time, expressing sadness over what had occurred.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked both Trump and Bondy for their clear stance against anti-Semitism, stating that the world is witnessing the terrible aftermath of such prejudice.
Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith indicated that before the shooting, the suspect had been seen loitering outside the museum. After approaching the victims, the suspect drew a weapon and opened fire.
The suspect, Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, fled to the capital’s Jewish Museum after the shooting, where he was apprehended. Upon being detained, he reportedly yelled out Palestinian slogans, acknowledging that he committed a crime.
“We have nothing to do with this shooting,” the pro-Palestinian group, Party for Socialism and Liberation, remarked, acknowledging Rodriguez’s connection to them but stating that his involvement had ceased several years ago.
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser stated that the community stands united against terrorist acts and will not tolerate anti-Semitism.
The Anti-Defamation League’s latest annual audit notes a troubling increase in anti-Semitic incidents, with a dramatic rise in such cases linked to tensions surrounding Israel.
An advocacy group remarked that these murders stem from a long period of escalating anti-Jewish sentiment across various platforms, suggesting that societal aggression against Jewish identity is reaching concerning levels.
