Jerusalem: The tragic shooting of two Israeli embassy staff members in Washington, DC, has sent shockwaves across the globe. Yaaron Lishinsky and Sarah Milgram, a young couple, were fatally shot near the Jewish Museum during an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee. The attack, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly condemned as antisemitic, has prompted an immediate and significant response from the Israeli government.
Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene as the gunman, identified as Elias Rodriguez, opened fire. Rodriguez, a 30-year-old from Chicago, was apprehended at the scene and is currently facing murder charges. Authorities are investigating the motive, but preliminary reports suggest an antisemitic bias, evidenced by the suspect’s alleged chanting of “Free Palestine” after the shooting.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, in a video, expressed profound sorrow and outrage. He said that Yaaron Lishinsky and Sarah Milgram, the two Israelis killed in the US, were a couple. “Yarron just bought an engagement ring for Sarah. He was planning to give it to her in Jerusalem next week. They were planning to start a new and happy life together.”
“The terrorist who cruelly gunned them down did so for one reason and one reason alone—he wanted to kill Jews,” he further said.
The Prime Minister’s immediate response was to order an immediate bolstering of security at all Israeli diplomatic missions worldwide, signifying a significant escalation of security protocols in response to what is being widely perceived as an act of terrorism. The attack occurred during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions, further highlighting the precarious situation.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from international leaders and organisations. The American Jewish Committee issued a statement expressing its profound grief and resolve to combat antisemitism. Investigations are ongoing, aiming to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the attack and bring the perpetrator to justice.
