In a tragic incident that has shaken diplomatic and Jewish communities in Washington, two staffers from the Israeli Embassy were shot dead on Wednesday evening outside the Capital Jewish Museum.
Israeli officials have condemned the attack as a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.”
The incident occurred near the FBI’s Washington Field Office, triggering a swift and massive law enforcement response. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the fatalities in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), extending condolences and promising full federal cooperation in the investigation.
Video footage from the area showed a heavy police presence outside the museum, which was closed to the public at the time of the shooting. The identities of the victims have not yet been released as authorities await family notifications.
Attorney General Pam Bondi and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro were reportedly present at the scene, but have not made public statements so far.
Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, also took to X to denounce the attack, urging U.S. authorities to act decisively against the perpetrators. “Israel will continue to protect its citizens and representatives around the world,” he asserted.
While law enforcement has not confirmed any details about the attacker or motive, a witness cited by Jewish Insider reporter Josh Kraushaar claimed the shooter shouted “Free Palestine” during the assault and later entered the museum wearing a keffiyeh. Police reportedly removed the suspect from the premises.
