2025-05-22T05:26:08Z

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On the evening of Wednesday, May 21, a tragic shooting incident unfolded outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., resulting in the deaths of two Israeli embassy staff members. The victims, who were a young couple engaged to be married, were fatally shot in close proximity to the museum, which is situated near the FBI field office and the U.S. Attorney's office.

According to Yechiel Leiter, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, the loss of these two promising lives has sent shockwaves through the Israeli community and beyond. The couple had been looking forward to their future together, making this incident all the more heartbreaking.

Authorities quickly apprehended a suspect identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez. Washington D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith detailed that Rodriguez was seen pacing outside the museum prior to the attack. Witnesses reported that he approached a group of four individuals, brandished a handgun, and opened fire.

Following the shooting, Rodriguez entered the museum where he was detained by event security personnel. Smith noted that the suspect, while in handcuffs, directed officers to where he had discarded his weapon. During this time, witnesses heard him chant, "Free Palestine, free Palestine," suggesting a possible motive rooted in political beliefs.

Notably, police confirmed that Rodriguez had no previous criminal history, raising further questions about his sudden violent outburst. The investigation is ongoing as officials seek to understand the full context of this tragic event.

U.S. President Donald Trump reacted strongly to the incident, labeling it "horrible" and stating that it was clearly based on antisemitism. In a social media post on Truth Social, he expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and condemned the act of violence, emphasizing that "Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA." His remarks highlight the administration's stance against antisemitic acts and the commitment to uphold justice.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also weighed in on the situation, branding the attack as a "brazen act of cowardly, antisemitic violence." He assured the public that the government would do everything in its power to bring those responsible to justice. Rubio's statement reflects a bipartisan concern regarding the rise of antisemitism and the need for enhanced security measures to protect communities.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog joined the chorus of condemnation, expressing his sorrow over the incident and reiterating the importance of fighting against intolerance and hatred in all forms. The shooting has sparked discussions about the safety of diplomatic personnel abroad as well as the broader implications of rising hatred and radicalism in society.