Two Israeli embassy employees were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on May 21 in what authorities are calling a targeted act of violence. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, were leaving a diplomatic event when they were approached by a gunman identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago.
Rodriguez allegedly opened fire without warning, killing both victims before being apprehended at the scene. Witnesses reported that the suspect shouted pro-Palestinian slogans during the incident, prompting investigators to explore terrorism and hate crime charges.
Federal prosecutors have charged Rodriguez with multiple offenses, including the murder of foreign officials, a capital crime that could lead to the death penalty. The FBI is leading the investigation and has not ruled out additional charges as the case develops.
President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu both condemned the attack, vowing justice for the victims and heightened security for Israeli diplomats around the world. The incident has reignited concerns over rising antisemitic violence and escalating tensions linked to Middle East conflicts reaching American soil.
Security protocols around diplomatic missions have been elevated in response, as international leaders call for calm and accountability following the tragedy.