Washington, D.C. – A deadly shooting outside the Jewish Museum in Washington has left two Israeli embassy staff members dead, prompting global shock and condemnation. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, has been charged with two counts of murder after reportedly opening fire on the couple as they exited the event.

The victims have been identified as Sarah Milgram, a Kansas native, and Yaron Lischinsky, originally from Israel. The couple, who met while working at the Israeli embassy, were reportedly planning a trip to Jerusalem, where Lischinsky intended to propose.

Gunman Caught Shortly After Attack

Eyewitnesses say the shooter was seen pacing outside the Jewish Museum before the attack. After the shots were fired, the suspect entered a nearby building appearing distressed, with bystanders initially unaware he was the perpetrator. He later surrendered to police and allegedly shouted pro-Palestinian slogans during his arrest.

Authorities searched Rodriguez’s Chicago residence and uncovered what appears to be a manifesto detailing his anger over the Israel-Gaza conflict, accusing Israel of genocide and advocating for political violence. The Department of Justice has confirmed it will pursue maximum charges, labeling the attack as a hate crime motivated by anti-Semitism.

Netanyahu Condemns European Leaders for Encouraging Anti-Israel Sentiment

In response to the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized several European leaders, blaming their rhetoric for fueling anti-Israel sentiment. “When mass murderers, rapists, baby killers, and kidnappers thank you,” Netanyahu said, “you are on the wrong side of justice, humanity, and history.”

The statement comes in response to a joint appeal earlier this week from French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, calling for an immediate halt to Israeli military actions in Gaza and a substantial increase in humanitarian aid.

Netanyahu argues that such statements embolden extremists and contribute to rising global anti-Semitism.

Global Reaction and Security Tightening

The White House condemned the killings, stating that anti-Semitic violence has no place in the United States. In New York City, synagogues have ramped up security, while in Washington, officials have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat.

A spontaneous vigil was held outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, with mourners expressing sorrow and frustration. “How can we stand here like it’s normal?” one attendee asked.

In the UK, Prime Minister Starmer condemned the attack on social media, stating: “Anti-Semitism is an evil we must stamp out.” The French Foreign Ministry responded to Netanyahu’s criticism by calling it “completely outrageous and unjustified.”

Rising Tensions Amid Ongoing Conflict

This tragic incident highlights the increasing polarization surrounding the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the geopolitical fallout. As global leaders urge de-escalation in Gaza, voices in Israel warn that perceived international indifference or bias could further radicalize anti-Israel actors.

The investigation into Rodriguez’s motives is ongoing, with officials emphasizing the need for vigilance against hate-motivated crimes, particularly those targeting Jewish communities.

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