Two staffers of the Israeli Embassy were shot dead outside a Jewish museum near Washington D.C.’s city center on Wednesday evening — a chilling incident U.S. President Donald Trump has swiftly condemned, describing it as a “horrible, antisemitic killing” that has no place in America.
The attack occurred near the intersection of Third Street and F Street NW, an area just blocks from Georgetown University Law School and the FBI’s Washington field office.
Eyewitnesses reported chaos as gunfire erupted during a quiet evening event hosted by the American Jewish Committee at the museum. The victims, both Israeli diplomatic staff, had reportedly attended the gathering before the tragedy struck.
Police say a lone suspect was apprehended at the scene. According to Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith, the attacker allegedly shouted “Free Free Palestine” while being arrested — a statement that has ignited fears the killings were politically and religiously motivated.
The identities of the victims are being withheld pending official notifications. Authorities have yet to reveal the suspect’s name or affiliations.
🗨️ Trump Reacts:
President Trump, in a strongly worded post on his Truth Social platform Thursday morning, called out the act as “obviously based on antisemitism.”
“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the United States,” he wrote.
Offering his sympathies, he added, “Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen!”
🔍 Investigation Underway:
Police have tightened security around Israeli diplomatic offices and Jewish institutions in the capital, while federal agencies including the FBI are reportedly assisting with the investigation.
The area remains cordoned off as forensics teams comb the site for evidence. Surveillance footage from nearby buildings is being reviewed.
🌍 Rising Tensions:
The attack comes amid heightened global tensions over the Israel-Palestine conflict, with rising reports of antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents across major U.S. cities.
While no group has officially claimed responsibility, the slogan reportedly shouted by the suspect has drawn sharp reactions from advocacy groups and security analysts alike.
As investigations continue, this brazen act of violence in the heart of the U.S. capital serves as a grim reminder that global conflicts are increasingly spilling over onto American soil — and those caught in the middle are often innocent. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant as they work to bring clarity, justice, and calm to a community shaken by hate.
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