Washington, D.C. — May 21, 2025 — A chilling act of violence unfolded in the heart of the nation’s capital Wednesday night, leaving two Israeli embassy staff members dead and sparking international outcry.
The fatal shooting occurred around 9:15 p.m. outside the Capital Jewish Museum, where the American Jewish Committee (AJC) was hosting its “Young Diplomats Reception 2025” — an evening designed to celebrate young Jewish professionals and strengthen international ties.
According to a spokesperson for the Israeli embassy, the two staffers were gunned down at close range near the event’s entrance. The suspect, described as a man with a goatee wearing a blue jacket and jeans, fled the scene. Authorities are still searching for the attacker.
The FBI, while acknowledging the gravity of the incident, stated there is “no ongoing threat to public safety.” However, the event’s peaceful atmosphere was shattered in seconds, and law enforcement officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeannine Pirro, swiftly responded to the scene.
In a disturbing development, a witness reported the alleged gunman entered the museum after the shooting, asking for water and a safe space before donning a keffiyeh and shouting “Free Palestine.” The report, shared by Jewish Insider editor-in-chief Josh Kraushaar, has not yet been independently confirmed by officials.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem addressed the tragedy on social media:
“We are actively investigating and working to get more information to share. Please pray for the families of the victims. We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice.”
Israeli officials have condemned the attack in the strongest terms.
Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, called the incident a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.”
“Harming the Jewish community is crossing a red line,” Danon said. “We are confident U.S. authorities will act decisively against those responsible. Israel will continue to protect its citizens and representatives across the globe.”
Ted Deutch, CEO of the AJC, issued a statement expressing heartbreak and solidarity.
“We are devastated that an unspeakable act of violence took place outside the venue. At this moment, as we await more information from the police about exactly what transpired, our attention and our hearts are solely with those who were harmed and their families.”
The attack has sent shockwaves through both the diplomatic and Jewish communities, reigniting conversations about anti-Semitic violence and the safety of foreign diplomats on U.S. soil.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
