On May 21st 2025, two staff from the Israeli Embassy in Washington D.C. were tragically shot and killed outside of Capital Jewish Museum in Washington D.C. These victims, believed to be young lovers planning to get engaged soon, had just attended an American Jewish Committee event for humanitarian efforts in Gaza and attended by CBS News, AP News, The Economicial Times, Guardian and Wikipedia as reported above. Elias Rodriguez from Chicago was seen pacing near the museum prior to opening fire around 9:05 p.m. He shot two staff members from the US Embassy before entering and being apprehended by security personnel inside. When being apprehended he chanted “Free Palestine!” suggesting political motivations as reported by BBC, AP News, DIE WELT and Wikipedia (all plus 7), while apparently also invoking his right to free speech by invoking an alternative history class as evidence against him (invoking both words for political motivation). Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed that Rodriguez acted without prior criminal history and no federal charges are anticipated, according to The Times, AP News, and Reuters sources. Israeli officials have denounced the attack as an act of antisemitic terrorism and called for enhanced security measures at Israeli missions worldwide. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu linked it to rising incitement against Israel and called for strengthened protection at all Israeli missions worldwide, according to Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon at UN headquarters. BBC, The Times, and Wikipedia each listed this event. U.S. leaders have also voiced their outrage. President Donald Trump described the attack as “horrific” and based on antisemitism; Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi pledged to bring those responsible to justice. These include BBC, The Times and Wikipedia as reliable sources. Capital Jewish Museum was recently given security funding as it received threats to Jewish institutions nearby, according to executive director Beatrice Gurwitz who highlighted ongoing challenges faced by Jewish communities amid higher security risks. *Sources include YouTube +8 (The Times / BBC ) +8 This incident has only amplified concerns over rising antisemitism and diplomatic personnel safety amid current tensions in the Middle East. Authorities continue their investigation of this shooting while security has been increased at Israeli diplomatic missions globally.
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