Tragedy struck on Wednesday night near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, as two staff members from the Israeli Embassy were shot dead. Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, confirmed the incident via a post on X, expressing her sadness over the “senseless” killings and emphasising an ongoing investigation to gather further details.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the shooting occurred across from the FBI’s Washington Field Office, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. The Israeli Embassy is actively cooperating with the authorities, but it was noted that the Israeli ambassador was not present during the shooting.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi and acting US Attorney for DC, Jeanine Pirro, were reported to be on the scene shortly after the incident. Meanwhile, Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, reflected on the situation, expressing devastation over the violence that disrupted an event hosted by the committee at the museum. He emphasised the organisation’s thoughts and prayers were firmly with the victims and their families as they awaited more information from the police.
Israel’s UN Ambassador, Danny Danon, also condemned the acts of violence, labelling the shooting as “anti-Semitic terrorism” on X, calling it a deplorable attack that targeted individuals linked to the Israeli Embassy.
In light of the ongoing investigation, police have advised the public to steer clear of the affected area in Northwest DC as they work to unravel the details surrounding this shocking event.