In a shocking incident on Wednesday, two Israeli embassy staff members were killed outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Milgrim, 26, were shot at close range by Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old man from Chicago. Witnesses reported that Rodriguez shouted “Free, free Palestine” during the attack, which is now being investigated as a domestic terrorism case.
The shooting occurred as Lischinsky and Milgrim were leaving an event for young Jewish professionals. Rodriguez, who is currently in custody, reportedly told police he acted in support of Palestine and Gaza. After the shooting, he expressed his motivations, saying, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza, I am unarmed,” according to an FBI affidavit.
Following the attack, Iranian-backed groups and pro-Hamas supporters praised Rodriguez’s actions. A Telegram channel associated with Iranian militias labeled the shooting a “heroic attack” against “the Zionist entity.” The Palestinian Mujahideen Movement, a group known for its hostility towards Israel, stated that the attack reflected growing anger towards Israel for its actions in Gaza.
Rodriguez is facing serious charges, including the murder of foreign officials and first-degree murder. The FBI is currently examining his online activities and potential connections to extremist groups. Reports indicate that he had recently become more vocal about pro-Palestinian views on social media.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino mentioned that they are aware of writings attributed to Rodriguez and expect to provide updates soon. Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Washington, Jeanine Pirro, emphasized that this act of violence, driven by hatred, would be pursued vigorously. She stated, “Antisemitism will not be tolerated, especially in the nation’s capital.”
The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the full context of this tragic event and its implications for domestic security.