Radicalism has no place in the USA, said US President Donald Trump after two staff members from the Israeli Embassy were shot and killed on Wednesday night outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC.
In a social media post on X, Trump said, “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 Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed the incident on social media, stating, “Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington, DC.”
Law enforcement sources told CNN the victims were shot as they were leaving an event at the museum. The incident occurred around 9:15 pm local time near an FBI office on F Street. According to a spokesperson for the Israeli embassy, the Israeli ambassador was not present at the event and was not involved in the incident.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi and acting US Attorney for DC Jeanine Pirro were seen at the scene shortly after the shooting, according to social media posts.
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Suspect Is In Custody
CBS News, citing sources familiar with the investigation, reported that a suspect is in custody. Two sources in the report also said the shooter shouted “Free Palestine” before opening fire.
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned the attack, calling it a “horrific act of terror,” and said he was informed by Attorney General Bondi, who was on site.
Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon also spoke out on social media, saying the shooting occurred outside an event at the museum and labeled it “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.”
Tal Naim Cohen, a spokesperson for the Israeli embassy, said the victims were shot at close range while attending a Jewish event, and expressed confidence in local and federal authorities to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the safety of Israeli personnel and Jewish communities across the US.
