Two Israeli Embassy Employees Killed in Shooting Outside Washington D.C. Jewish Museum; FBI Launches Investigation.
Washington: A shooting during a Jewish community event in Washington, D.C., resulted in the deaths of two Israeli embassy employees. This tragic incident occurred outside the Capital Jewish Museum, where an official event was being held by the American Jewish Committee.
Close-Range Shooting; Embassy Confirms
The Israeli embassy in Washington confirmed the shooting. Spokesperson Tal Naim Cohen stated that the two employees were shot at close range while attending a Jewish cultural event. He added, "We have full confidence in the local and federal agencies in the U.S. to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the safety of Israeli representatives and the Jewish community."
Major FBI and Homeland Security Investigation
Given the severity of the incident, the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force has taken over the investigation. U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Christy Noem expressed sorrow, stating, "We are investigating this with the utmost seriousness. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We will bring those responsible for this act of terror to justice."
FBI Director's Statement
FBI Director Kash Patel also expressed concern, stating that upon learning of the shooting, they immediately launched action in conjunction with the MPD (Metropolitan Police Department). "We offer our prayers to the families of the victims and will share further information as soon as possible," he said.
Israeli Ambassador to the UN Condemns Attack
Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, bly condemned the incident, calling it a direct act of terrorism against Jews. "This was not just a shooting; it was a calculated attempt to intimidate and terrorize Jews. This must be universally condemned," he stated.
Was This a Pre-Planned Attack?
Preliminary investigations suggest this may have been a targeted attack, beyond a typical crime. Given the event's connection to the Jewish community and the presence of Israeli officials, it is considered potentially motivated by religious or political hatred. However, authorities are not yet confirming this, and the investigation continues.
Questions Raised About Security
This incident raises significant questions about the safety of the Jewish community, even in high-security zones like Washington, D.C. With reports of increasing antisemitism in the U.S., this event highlights the vulnerability to targeted attacks anywhere—even in the capital.
