On the evening of May 21, two employees of the Israeli embassy were shot dead in downtown Washington, D.C., near the Jewish Museum, just a few dozen meters from the FBI headquarters.
It was reported by Sky News.
Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon called the attack "a depraved act of antisemitic terrorism." He also added: "We are confident U.S. authorities will take decisive action against those responsible for this criminal act. Israel will continue to act decisively to protect its citizens and representatives — anywhere in the world."
According to Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith, law enforcement officers have already detained the suspect. During the arrest, he shouted: "free, free Palestine." Witnesses reported that before the attack, the man walked past the museum several times, and then approached a group of people, took out a gun and opened fire.
The dead were young Israeli diplomats, who were a couple. According to eyewitnesses, the guy had recently bought a ring and was planning to propose soon. "They were a beautiful couple who came to enjoy an evening in Washington's cultural center," said Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter.
He also said that after the incident he had a conversation with US President Donald Trump. The American leader reacted on social networks: " These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!"
US Secretary of the Interior Kristi Noem condemned the attack, calling it "senseless" and promised to "bring this depraved perpetrator to justice."
The suspect was identified as 30-year-old Chicago resident Elijah Rodriguez. He had no prior history of trouble with the law and was not known to police.
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said: "There is no active threat in our community. What I do know is that the horrific incident is going to frighten a lot of people in our city, and in our country. I want to be clear that we will not tolerate this violence or hate."
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