Two Israeli embassy staffers were shot and killed late Wednesday in Washington, D.C., in what officials are describing as a targeted antisemitic attack and act of terror.
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 Israeli Embassy identified the victims as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim in a social media post, calling the pair “friends and colleagues.”
“This evening, a terrorist shot and killed them as they exited an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in DC. The entire embassy staff is heartbroken and devastated by their murder. No words can express the depth of our grief and horror at this devastating loss,” the embassy added.
The FBI was on scene quickly, as the shooting occurred a short distance from the headquarters. Dan Bongino, deputy director of the FBI, confirmed the suspect had been taken into custody and was being interviewed by D.C. Metropolitan Police and members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
“Last night’s act of terror has the full attention of your FBI. Targeted acts of anti-Semitic violence are typically carried out by spineless, gutless cowards. And the penalties will be harsh as we tighten up this investigation and run down any additional leads. I should have additional updates for you shortly as I head back to FBI HQ,” Bongino posted to X.
Attorney General Pam Bondi was also on scene following the attack. According to a post from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, she had been in contact 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.
Netanyahu said in response that he was instructing security officials to “strengthen protection” for Israeli missions worldwide, while raising “the level of security for all state envoys.”
The shooting in D.C. follows a string of antisemitic uprisings and attacks, including violent protests at several universities across the country and a 2018 Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, Penn., killing 11 worshipers.
