Two Israeli embassy staffers killed in D.C. shooting, suspect held

Two staff members from the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C.- Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim were shot and killed on Wednesday night by a lone gunman as they left an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, close to the White House.

The attacker, 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, shouted "Free Palestine" during his arrest and reportedly confessed to the shooting.

The victims were known for supporting peace and dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians. Yaron had recently bought a ring to propose to Sarah in Jerusalem. The couple was deeply involved in efforts to promote understanding and peace in the Middle East.

Police said the gunman had no previous record and was pacing near the museum before the attack. He entered the event afterward, where witnesses say he admitted to the shooting while chanting in support of Gaza.

Leaders from both Israel and the U.S. reacted strongly. President Donald Trump called the attack antisemitic and urged an end to hate and radicalism. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu also condemned the attack and announced tighter security at Israeli embassies worldwide.

The shooting has further intensified debate in the U.S. over the Israel-Palestine conflict. Protests, hate crimes, and political tensions have increased on both sides since the war in Gaza began.

The victims are remembered as passionate peacebuilders. Friends, colleagues, and community members held a small gathering at the scene to mourn their loss and express unity in the face of hate.

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