Two staff members from the Israeli Embassy in Washington DC were shot and killed on Wednesday night. They were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, according to reports.
Shooting Occurred During Jewish Committee Event
The museum was hosting an event organized by the American Jewish Committee. The Times of Israel cited sources confirming the incident happened during this gathering.
Police Arrest Suspect, Investigation Underway
Police quickly caught the suspect with help from event security. Mayor Muriel Bowser said the suspect was not on any watchlists. Officials also confirmed there were no prior security warnings.
Leaders Condemn Antisemitic Attack
US President Donald Trump condemned the violence. On Truth Social, he wrote, “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!”
US Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem shared a similar message on X. “Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington DC. Please pray for the families of the victims. We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice.”
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.
— Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) May 22, 2025
We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice.
Israeli Officials Demand Justice
Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon called it “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.” He said on X, “The fatal shooting that took place outside the event that took place at the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. is a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism. Harming the Jewish community is crossing a red line. 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.”
The fatal shooting that took place outside the event that took place at the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. is a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism. Harming the Jewish community is crossing a red line. We are confident that the US authorities will take strong action against… pic.twitter.com/mVyXHjGyxU
— Danny Danon 🇮🇱 דני דנון (@dannydanon) May 22, 2025
FBI Responds to the Attack
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed he received a briefing. He said his team is working closely with the Metropolitan Police. On X, he posted, “While we’re working with [Metropolitan Police Department] to respond and learn more, in the immediate, please pray for the victims and their families.”