Two Israel embassy staffers shot dead in Washington; 'crossed red line', says envoy
Even as Israel's envoy to UN called it as depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism, Trump condemned it too saying there's no place for hatred and radicalism in US
Two staff members from the Israeli Embassy in Washington DC, were shot dead on Wednesday (May 21) evening, near the Jewish Museum.
The incident, described by Israeli officials as an 'act of anti-Semitic terrorism', occurred in close proximity to the FBI's Washington Field Office, located in Northwest DC.
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Though the identities of the victims have not been made public, local media reports claim that both individuals were affiliated with Israel’s diplomatic mission in the United States.
The Israeli Embassy has acknowledged the incident but stated that the ambassador was not present during the attack and has not issued a full statement yet.
Official response
US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the deaths in a post on X, stating that an active investigation is underway and that federal authorities are coordinating with local law enforcement to determine the full circumstances.
"Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington DC. We are actively investigating and working to get more information to share. Please pray for the families of the victims. We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice" Noem posted on X.
FBI Director Kash Patel was also briefed on the incident in a separate post, stating, “We’re working with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to respond and learn more, please pray for the victims and their families.We will keep the public updated as we are able.”
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Investigation ongoing
The Washington DC police units arrived at the scene moments after the shooting was reported, immediately locking down the surrounding area. A police spokesperson said officers are searching for witnesses and surveillance footage.
The shooting reportedly occurred during an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) at the Capital Jewish Museum, which was opened in Washington DC in 2023. AJC CEO Ted Deutch said, “We are devastated that an unspeakable act of violence took place outside the venue.”
US condemns killing
US Attorney General Pam Bondi and acting US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro reportedly visited the scene shortly after the attack. Bondi confirmed that authorities are coordinating a full federal response and would brief the public as more information becomes available.
US President Donald Trump condemned the incident. "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!" he said in a post on Truth Social.
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'Crossed red line'
Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, condemned the incident and termed it as "crossing the red line".
In a post on X, he said, "The fatal shooting that took place outside the event that took place at the Jewish Museum in Washington, DC is a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism."