New Delhi: In a shocking act of violence near the heart of the U.S. capital, two Israeli embassy staff members were shot dead outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday evening. The attack occurred just after the victims attended a diplomatic event organized by the American Jewish Committee (AJC), plunging the city into a state of heightened alert and prompting swift condemnation from leaders in both Israel and the United States.
The incident took place at approximately 9:05 p.m. near 3rd and F Streets NW, an area lined with key government buildings, including the FBI’s Washington field office. The victims—a man and a woman, both young Israeli diplomats—were targeted as they exited the AJC ACCESS Young Diplomats Reception, an event intended to foster dialogue between Jewish professionals and international envoys.
Authorities have confirmed that the suspected shooter, 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, was apprehended at the scene. Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith stated that Rodriguez appeared to be acting alone. Surveillance footage reportedly shows him pacing in front of the museum before opening fire on a group that included the two diplomats. Witnesses say he shouted “Free, free Palestine!” during the attack. A firearm was recovered, and Rodriguez remains in custody.
Israel’s embassy spokesperson, Tal Naim Cohen, confirmed the identities of the victims and stressed the embassy’s confidence in U.S. law enforcement to pursue justice and ensure the safety of Israeli and Jewish communities across the country.
The Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, revealed a deeply personal detail about the tragedy. “The couple gunned down tonight were soon to be engaged. The young man had just bought a ring and was planning to propose in Jerusalem next week,” he said. Ambassador Leiter also noted that former President Donald Trump called personally to express his condolences and offer support in the fight against antisemitism.
The response from Israeli and American leaders was swift and forceful. Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon described the shooting as “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism” and called it a red line that must not be crossed. He urged the U.S. government to respond decisively.
In the United States, expressions of grief and condemnation poured in. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee called the attack “a horrific act of terror” and a reminder of the dangers Jews face globally. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer described the incident as “sickening,” while AJC CEO Ted Deutch said the organization was “devastated” by the loss.
President Donald Trump issued a statement on social media, declaring: “These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen.”
The victims’ names have not yet been publicly released, pending notification of next of kin. Authorities continue to investigate the motive and background of the suspect. The Israeli and American communities remain united in mourning, as calls grow louder for stronger action against rising antisemitism.
