A young couple working at the Israeli Embassy was shot dead outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday night in what authorities and officials are calling a despicable act of antisemitic violence.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog called the attack “a despicable act of hatred” and extended support to the victims’ families and the embassy staff.
“The US and Israel will stand united in defence of our people and our shared values.”
The victims, a man and a woman, had just exited the museum around 9pm (local time) when a gunman approached a group of four people and opened fire, according to Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith. Both victims died at the scene.
Israeli diplomat Walid Abu Haya confirmed that two Israeli Embassy staff members were killed in a terrorist attack outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, describing it as a “heinous terrorist attack.” He highlighted the ongoing threat faced by Israeli and Jewish institutions globally, saying:
“Israeli embassies and Jewish and Israeli institutions have long been targets of violent and extremist terror… Such terrorism will not deter us from continuing to represent Israel among the nations and to stand firm in the justice of our path.”
He offered condolences, adding,
“May the memory of our fallen colleagues be blessed, and my heart is with their families.”
“They were a beautiful couple who came to enjoy an evening in Washington’s cultural centre,” said Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter.
“The young man purchased a ring this week with the intention of proposing to his girlfriend next week in Jerusalem.”
The alleged shooter, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, was seen pacing outside the venue before launching the attack. He then entered the museum and was quickly detained by event security.
While in custody, Rodriguez reportedly chanted “Free, free Palestine,” before revealing to security where he had discarded the weapon, which was later recovered by authorities.
The museum was hosting a high-profile reception for young Jewish diplomats and professionals, organised by the American Jewish Committee (AJC). “We are devastated that an unspeakable act of violence took place outside the venue,” said AJC CEO Ted Deutch.
US and Israeli officials expressed shock and grief in the wake of the shooting. President Donald Trump said he had spoken to Ambassador Leiter and pledged full support. “These horrible DC killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“Hatred and radicalism have no place in the USA.”
US Attorney-General Pam Bondi, who visited the site, echoed the outrage:
“We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice.”
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the victims were Israeli Embassy staff. “We are actively investigating and working to get more information to share. Please pray for the families of the victims,” she posted on X.
Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, described the shooting as “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.” He urged US authorities to take strong action and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to protecting its citizens and diplomatic staff worldwide.
FBI Director Kas Patel confirmed his team has been briefed on the deadly shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., and said the FBI is working closely with local police. He urged compassion for those affected:
“Please pray for the victims and their families.”
The Capital Jewish Museum is located just steps from the FBI’s Washington field office and a few blocks from DC police headquarters. Police have not yet confirmed a motive, but Chief Smith noted there was no prior intelligence suggesting a threat.
Investigations are ongoing.
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
