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A tragic and brutal attack in Washington D.C. has left two young employees of the Israeli embassy dead, shaking both diplomatic and local communities. Yaron Lischinsky, 28, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, 26, were shot and killed outside the city’s Jewish Museum on Wednesday night, shortly after attending an event aimed at promoting humanitarian dialogue.
Authorities say the alleged gunman, 30-year-old Elias Rodríguez from Chicago, opened fire on a group of individuals, reportedly shouting pro-Palestinian slogans during and after the attack. “I did this for Gaza. Free Palestine,” he yelled while being arrested, according to eyewitnesses.
Rodríguez has been charged with intentional homicide, the killing of foreign officials, and multiple firearm-related offenses. The FBI is currently investigating the case as a potential hate crime or act of terrorism, reviewing Rodríguez’s background, social media activity, and personal affiliations.
Premeditated Act of Violence
According to police reports, Rodríguez was seen loitering outside the museum before approaching a group and firing his weapon. Disturbing footage confirms that after the victims fell, the attacker returned to fire additional shots. When Milgrim attempted to crawl away, he shot her again, reloaded his weapon, and fired more rounds as she tried to sit up.
Rodríguez then entered the museum, appearing distressed. Unaware of his identity, attendees tried to assist him until the police arrived. Witnesses report he confessed on the spot, waving a red Palestinian keffiyeh and repeating slogans about Gaza and revolution.
Victims Remembered for Their Dedication and Character
Yaron Lischinsky served in the political department of the Israeli embassy and held a master’s degree in government diplomacy from Reichman University. A dual citizen of Germany and Israel, he was known for his commitment to peace and interfaith dialogue. Friends and colleagues described him as a devout Christian and a bridge-builder between Germans and Israelis.
Sarah Lynn Milgrim, part of the embassy’s public diplomacy team, had an academic background in international studies and environmental development. She was active in initiatives promoting dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians, including as a volunteer for Tech2Peace.
Both were described as compassionate, committed, and full of life. The Israeli ambassador to the U.S. revealed that Lischinsky had recently purchased an engagement ring and had planned to propose during an upcoming trip to Jerusalem. "They were a beautiful couple," he said in a press briefing.
High-Level Reactions and Condemnations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the killings as an antisemitic attack and ordered enhanced security at Israeli missions worldwide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the incident a direct consequence of global antisemitic incitement following the October 7 attacks.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance condemned the violence, emphasizing that antisemitism has no place in America. Trump expressed his sorrow and called for an end to hate-driven violence in a post on his Truth Social platform.
Event Intended to Promote Peace
The victims had attended an event organized by the American Jewish Committee, which brought together young Jewish professionals and diplomats to discuss humanitarian efforts, including aid to civilians in Gaza. Despite the nature of the gathering—a message of unity and shared action—the evening turned into a scene of terror.
One attendee described the atmosphere as “chaotic and surreal” after the attack, as police stormed the building and urged everyone to take shelter. The museum, located near major federal buildings including the FBI headquarters, became a focal point of grief and disbelief.
The tragedy has once again ignited debates over rising antisemitic rhetoric and violence, and prompted urgent calls for solidarity, protection of diplomatic personnel, and a reaffirmation of humanitarian values amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
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