Double Murder Outside Israeli Embassy: Terrorism Investigation Launched

Two Israeli Embassy Staffers Killed in Washington D.C. Shooting; Suspect Charged with Murder On Wednesday night, May 22, 2025, a tragic shooting outside the Israeli embassy in Washington D.C. claimed the lives of two Israeli embassy staffers, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgram. The suspect, identified as Eliott Rodriguez, was apprehended and charged with two counts of first-degree murder. The incident has sparked international outrage and is being investigated as a possible act of terrorism. Friends and colleagues described Lischinsky and Milgram as a loving couple, with Lischinsky planning to propose to Milgram. Ayelett Razin, a friend and colleague of Milgram, shared, "They were murdered because they were Jews. They had nothing to do with Israel or Israeli government policy." Ronen Shoval, Lischinsky's professor in Jerusalem, described him as a "real human being, smiling." Following the shooting, Rodriguez reportedly shouted "Free Palestine." Authorities are investigating a manifesto titled "Escalate for Gaza; Bring the War Home," which accuses Israel of atrocities and genocide in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed the murders on critics of Israel's war in Gaza. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar condemned the violence and the incitement from European leaders who criticized Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza. In response to the attack, increased security measures are in place around Israeli consulates and embassies globally. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions and violence in the region.