Two Israeli embassy staff members were shot and killed on the evening of May 21 near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. The deadly incident occurred in the heart of the U.S. capital, not far from federal offices and during a private event organized by the American Jewish Committee.
According to police, the shooting took place around 8:00 p.m. local time. Witnesses reported that the gunman shouted “Free Palestine!” before fleeing the scene. Authorities are currently searching for a suspect described as a man with a short beard, wearing a blue jacket and jeans, last seen heading down F Street NW. Both the FBI and Washington police are involved in the manhunt.
The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that the two individuals killed were affiliated with the Israeli Embassy. While officials have not yet released their names, several sources have reported that both victims were Israeli citizens working in an official capacity.
Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, condemned the attack as “a brutal act of antisemitic terrorism.” He called the targeting of diplomats a red line and said he expects a firm response from American authorities.
The American Jewish Committee also issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and concern. They confirmed the victims were attending an event hosted by the organization and noted that the shooting occurred just outside the museum’s entrance.
Police have cordoned off the area and are reviewing surveillance footage while interviewing witnesses. As of the morning of May 22, the suspect remains at large, and the investigation is ongoing.
