Trump calls to end antisemitism as two Israeli embassy members shot dead in Washington

US President Donald Trump has condemned the deadly shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, DC, calling the incident an “obviously” antisemitic attack and demanding an immediate end to hatred and radicalism in the United States.

“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, Caliber.Az reports.

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.

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.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the attack, calling it “a despicable act of hatred.” 

“Our hearts are with the loved ones of those murdered and our immediate prayers are with the injured,” he said in a statement, adding his support to the Israeli ambassador and embassy staff.

Danny Danon, Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, called the shooting "a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism."

"There is no active threat," DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said during the press conference at the Metropolitan Police Department.

United States Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said on X, "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."

By Sabina Mammadli