Two Israeli Embassy staffers were tragically shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Thursday evening in what authorities believe was a targeted antisemitic attack. Attorney General Pam Bondi described the scene as “horrific” and vowed that the suspect will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, both in their twenties and working for the Israeli Embassy, were fatally shot by 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez as they exited an event at the museum. Bondi, who was at the scene with U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, expressed profound grief over the senseless loss of life.
“Two beautiful young people were gunned down last night needlessly,” Bondi stated during an appearance on Fox News’ “America’s Newsroom.” “I saw his body being taken away from the scene. That was horrific. No parents should have to be called and told that their children were violently murdered leaving a religious event at the Jewish Museum. That should never happen in this world and not in our country.”
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Law enforcement officials reported that Rodriguez was seen pacing outside the museum before opening fire with a handgun on a group of four people. He reportedly shouted “free Palestine” as he was being detained, leading investigators to believe the attack was motivated by antisemitism.
The depth of the tragedy was further underscored by revelations from Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, who told reporters that Lischinsky had planned to propose to Milgrim and had already selected an engagement ring.
“They had their entire lives in front of them and now it’s taken away,” Bondi remarked, adding, “our job now is to be sure justice is served, and it will be served under President Donald Trump.”
The Israeli Foreign Ministry released a statement on X, expressing their shock and horror. “We are shocked and horrified this morning by the news of the brutal terrorist attack that claimed the lives of two of our Embassy staff members in Washington — Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim. May their memory be a blessing.”
The ministry affirmed, “We will not be deterred by terror.”
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President Donald Trump also weighed in on the incident via Truth Social, condemning the violence and antisemitism. “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!”
Attorney General Bondi assured Americans that the ongoing investigation is a top priority, with the Metro Police Department working “hand in hand” with federal investigators. While unable to provide details on Rodriguez’s cooperation, Bondi emphasized that the violence “must stop” and that public safety remains paramount.
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