Tragic Shooting Near Jewish Museum Claims Lives of Israeli Embassy Staff in Washington

In a tragic incident, two staff members of the Israeli Embassy were shot dead near the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. The attack has been labeled as an act of anti-Semitic terrorism, drawing strong reactions from officials and community leaders. U.S. Homeland Security is actively investigating the case, while the Israeli ambassador has called for justice and protection for Jewish communities. The American Jewish Committee expressed their devastation over the violence that occurred during their event. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on supporting the victims' families and ensuring safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2025, 10:38 IST

Incident Overview

Washington: In a shocking incident, two employees of the Israeli Embassy were fatally shot near the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., as reported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The victims, a male and a female staff member, were attacked by an unidentified gunman as they left the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday evening.

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed her condolences on social media, stating, "Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. We are actively investigating and working to get more information to share. Please pray for the families of the victims. We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice."

Reactions and Statements

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, condemned the shooting as a "depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism," emphasizing that harming the Jewish community is unacceptable. He expressed confidence that U.S. authorities would take decisive action against those responsible.

Tal Naim Cohen, a spokesperson for the Israeli embassy, expressed trust in local and federal law enforcement to capture the shooter and ensure the safety of Israeli representatives and Jewish communities across the U.S.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that his team is collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Department regarding the incident.

"My team and I have been briefed on the shooting tonight in downtown DC outside the Capital Jewish Museum and near our Washington Field Office. While we’re working with MPD to respond and learn more, in the immediate, please pray for the victims and their families. We will keep the public updated as we are able," said Patel.

The American Jewish Committee (AJC) confirmed that they hosted an event at the Capital Jewish Museum on the night of the shooting. They expressed their devastation over the violence that occurred outside the venue, stating, "At this moment, as we await more information from the police about exactly what transpired, our attention and our hearts are solely with those who were harmed and their families."