WASHINGTON, DC - Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington were fatally shot on Wednesday evening while leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum. The incident, which occurred on May 22, 2025, has been condemned as an act of antisemitism by officials [1][3].

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar identified the victims as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim. Lischinsky worked as a research assistant, while Milgrim organized visits and missions to Israel [1][2].

Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith reported that the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, approached a group of four people outside the museum and opened fire. After the shooting, Rodriguez entered the museum and was detained by event security [1][4].

According to police, upon arrest, Rodriguez reportedly shouted, "Free, free Palestine" [1][2]. The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential targeted attack [3].

Eyewitness Yoni Kalin told Fox 5 News that security personnel initially mistook the suspect for a victim, allowing him entry into the museum. "The security guard happened to let this guy in, I guess they were thinking he was a victim," Kalin stated [5].

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed shock at the "horrific, antisemitic" shooting. In a statement, he said, "We are witnessing the terrible price of antisemitism and wild incitement against Israel. The blood libels against Israel are costing blood and must be combatted to the bitter end" [8].

Danny Danon, Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, called the shooting a "depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism" and urged world leaders to take stronger action against hate crimes [7].

The incident has sparked outrage and renewed concerns about the safety of diplomatic personnel and Jewish communities in the United States. As investigations continue, authorities have stated that they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the community [1][11].