Two staff members from the Israeli embassy were shot and killed on Wednesday evening near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. The attack happened close to 3rd and F Streets in Northwest Washington, near several important buildings, including an FBI field office and the US Attorney’s Office. The victims, one man and one woman, were attending a Jewish event at the museum when the incident took place.

Suspect arrested, motive still not clear

According to Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith, the attacker acted alone. She said that the suspect was seen pacing outside the museum before the shooting. After being taken into custody, the suspect was heard shouting, “Free Palestine, free Palestine.”

The reason behind the attack is not officially confirmed yet. Police have planned a news conference to provide more details. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are involved in the investigation.

FBI Director Kash Patel said that his team had been informed about the shooting. "While we’re working with [Metropolitan Police Department] to respond and learn more, in the immediate, please pray for the victims and their families," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shared the news online, while Attorney General Pam Bondi and US Attorney Jeanine Pirro were present at the scene and confirmed the tragic event.

The attack has been strongly condemned by leaders in both Israel and the United States.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in a statement, “I am devastated by the scenes in Washington DC. This is a despicable act of hatred, of antisemitism, which has claimed the lives of two young employees of the Israeli embassy. Our hearts are with the loved ones of those murdered, and our immediate prayers are with the injured.”

He added, “I send my full support to the ambassador and all the embassy staff. We stand with the Jewish community in DC and across the US. America and Israel will stand united in defence of our people and our shared values. Terror and hate will not break us.”

President Donald Trump also reacted strongly. He said, “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!”

Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon called the incident a “heinous act of anti-Semitic terrorism”. He added, “We are confident that the US authorities will take strong action against those responsible for this criminal act. Israel will continue to act resolutely to protect its citizens and representatives — everywhere in the world.”

Tal Naim Cohen, spokesperson for the Israeli embassy, confirmed that the two staff members were shot "at close range" during the event.

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