Washington DC shooting of Israeli embassy staff: what we know so far

Published: Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 12:12 pm

Israeli Embassy Staff Killed in Washington DC Shooting: What We Know

A tragic event unfolded in Washington D.C. on Wednesday evening, leaving two Israeli embassy staff members dead. The victims, identified as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum after attending an event. The suspect, Elias Rodriguez, 30, of Chicago, was apprehended at the scene and reportedly shouted "Free, free Palestine" during his arrest.

Lischinsky, 28, was a member of the embassy's political department and was reportedly planning to propose to his girlfriend next week. Milgrim organized visits and missions to Israel and volunteered with Tech2Peace, an organization promoting dialogue between Palestinians and Israelis. Both were remembered by colleagues and friends as dedicated individuals.

The shooting occurred after the American Jewish Committee's Young Diplomats reception. Witnesses described the suspect pacing outside the museum before the attack. The Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI are investigating the incident, with the U.S. Attorney in Washington prosecuting the case.

The attack has drawn strong condemnation from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called it a horrific act of antisemitism. The incident comes amid heightened tensions due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The war began with Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, and has since resulted in a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with widespread displacement and food shortages.

BNN's Perspective: While the suspect's alleged motive is under investigation, the timing of this attack, amidst the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and rising antisemitism, is deeply concerning. It underscores the urgent need for de-escalation and a renewed commitment to peaceful dialogue and understanding. The loss of life is a tragedy, and it is crucial to avoid generalizations and focus on the facts as the investigation unfolds.

Keywords: Washington DC shooting, Israeli embassy, Yaron Lischinsky, Sarah Milgrim, Elias Rodriguez, antisemitism, Capital Jewish Museum, Free Palestine, Israel, Gaza, Hamas, conflict, violence, Jewish, Palestinian, embassy staff, shooting, attack, investigation, Benjamin Netanyahu.

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