FBI Director Kash Patel has formally declared the deadly shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C. a terrorist act, confirming suspicions that the attack was politically motivated and rooted in antisemitism.
The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, were killed on May 21 outside the Capital Jewish Museum after attending a diplomatic event. The shooter, identified as Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, allegedly shouted “Free, free Palestine” during his arrest—words that immediately signaled the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division to take over the case.
“This was not random. This was a targeted act of political violence fueled by hate,” Patel said in a briefing. “We are investigating this as an act of domestic terrorism with potential international influences.”
Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed that the Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the probe, with investigators combing through Rodriguez’s digital footprint and a manifesto found during a raid on his home. The document reportedly expressed outrage over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and signaled a desire to retaliate against perceived “agents of oppression,” suggesting premeditation.
President Trump, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and lawmakers from both parties have condemned the murders as a heinous act of antisemitic terrorism. Trump vowed swift justice and increased protection for all diplomatic personnel on U.S. soil.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the murders “a brutal act of hate” and warned other nations to take threats against Israeli personnel more seriously. Israeli security forces have already begun reevaluating overseas security protocols in response.
U.S. federal agents have since executed search warrants on multiple locations connected to Rodriguez in Chicago. Early evidence indicates he may have had online contact with extremist networks, although no formal ties to a larger organization have been confirmed yet.
Security has been significantly increased around Israeli and Jewish institutions across the country as a precaution, while officials urge communities to stay vigilant.
“This was an attack not just on Israel, but on American soil, against peaceful diplomatic representatives,” said Patel. “It will not be tolerated. We will pursue every lead until justice is fully served.”
The investigation remains active, with updates expected in the coming days as forensic analysts and intelligence teams review new evidence.
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