(The Center Square) – Outrage and condemnation are pouring in following the antisemitic “terror attack” that killed two Israeli diplomats in Washington, D.C. Wednesday night.
The Israeli Embassy identified the victims as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim.
The shooting occurred outside the Capital Jewish Museum following an event for diplomats. Multiple media reports say the alleged shooter repeatedly shouted, “Free Palestine,” following the attack.
The alleged shooter has reportedly been identified as, Elias Rodriguez, a Chicago resident. The FBI confirmed that it was carrying out an investigation in Chicago related to the attack. Rodriguez was swiftly apprehended by authorities following the shooting.
President Donald Trump quickly condemned the attacks, also describing the attack as antisemitic.
“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! God Bless You ALL!,” the president posted on his Truth Social account.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio vows to track down those responsible.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the murder of two staff members from the Embassy of Israel in Washington, DC. Our prayers are with their loved ones. This was a brazen act of cowardly, antisemitic violence. Make no mistake: we will track down those responsible and bring them to justice,” Rubio posted on X.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted that he has been in close contact with the Trump administration since the attack. He expressed anger towards the rise of antisemitism, while saying his administration was boosting security worldwide.
“This is a difficult and horrific event. I also spoke with the United States Attorney General, Pam Bondi, who shared with me all the details known so far about the identity of the killer and the two valuable employees who were brutally murdered. Prosecutor Bondi expressed deep, heartfelt sorrow. She informed me that President Donald Trump was closely following the incident, and that US authorities would do everything they could to bring the killer to justice. She also asked to convey her condolences to the families of the young couple who were about to get engaged.
“I thanked her and President Trump for their clear stance against anti-Semitism — a moral, courageous, and necessary stance. We are witnessing the terrible price of anti-Semitism and wild incitement against the State of Israel. The blood libels against the Jewish state are rising in blood – and they must be fought to the bitter end,” Netanyahu posted to X.
Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also said she was directing law enforcement to increase security in wake of Wednesday night’s attack.
“I am horrified by last night’s murder of two Israeli Embassy staffers at the Capital Jewish Museum. Antisemitism is a threat to all of us. This act of terrorism is a painful reminder that we must continue to fight it wherever it rears its ugly head…I will continue fighting to make sure all New Yorkers can feel safe in their communities. In an abundance of caution, we are increasing security measures at houses of worship and other vulnerable sites across the state,” Hochul posted on X.
Vice President JD Vance offered his condolences, echoing condemnation for recent antisemitic violence.
“My heart breaks for Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, who were murdered last night at the Capital Jewish Museum. Antisemitic violence has no place in the United States. We’re praying for their families and all of our friends at the Israeli Embassy, where the two victims worked,” the vice president posted to social media.
Sen. John Fetterman, D-Penn., who been a vocal supporter of Israel in the Democratic party, offered his condolences.
“Unbelievable and appears to be a targeted, antisemitic attack. My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of those who died or were injured in this senseless violence,” posted Fetterman on X.
