Israel bolsters security at diplomatic missions following Washington tragedy

Israel has intensified security protocols across its diplomatic missions worldwide following the killing of two Israeli diplomats in Washington, DC. The development has prompted heightened coordination between Israeli and US authorities.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed the measures, stating that Israel is maintaining close and continuous contact with US officials in the wake of the incident, Caliber.Az reports.

Horrified by this morning's terrorist attack, in which two of our Embassy staff in Washington D.C. were murdered.
Israeli representatives around the world are constantly exposed to heightened risk - especially in these times.
We are in close contact with American authorities.…

— Gideon Sa'ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) May 22, 2025

“Horrified by this morning's terrorist attack, in which two of our Embassy staff in Washington DC were murdered. Israeli representatives around the world are constantly exposed to heightened risk - especially in these times.

We are in close contact with American authorities. Israel will not surrender to terror,” Sa’ar posted on his X account.

The murders have raised significant concerns regarding the safety of Israeli representatives abroad and have triggered a comprehensive review of existing security arrangements.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his heart ached for the families of the victims, "whose lives were cut short by a heinous antisemitic murderer".

"We are witnessing the terrible price of antisemitism and wild incitement against the State of Israel. The blood libels against Israel are rising in blood and must be fought to the bitter end," he said in a statement.

A man and a woman, both employees of the Israeli embassy, were fatally shot while leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum on the evening of May 21. The Metropolitan Police Department identified the suspect as Elias Rodriguez, 30, of Chicago.

Authorities have arrested a suspect, Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed.

The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, was taken into custody at the scene shortly after the incident and is currently being questioned by law enforcement. He had no prior criminal history or known connection to law enforcement agencies, Smith said during a press conference.

Smith stated that Rodriguez attempted to enter the museum after the shooting but was stopped by security. The suspect chanted "Free, Free Palestine" after being taken into custody, DC. Police Chief Pamela Smith said. Police believe Rodriguez acted alone.

Police say Rodriguez was seen pacing outside the museum before approaching a group of four people and opening fire. He then entered the museum, where he was detained by event security. Upon his arrest, he reportedly shouted, “Free, free Palestine,” according to Police Chief Pamela Smith.

He also explained where he had allegedly ditched the gun used in the shooting, which was promptly recovered, according to officials.

By Vafa Guliyeva