• Two Israeli embassy staff were fatally shot outside a Jewish museum in Washington DC in a targeted attack. The world mourns the loss of 2 Israeli Embassy Staff, urging stronger security measures.
• Police launched a major search for a male suspect described as wearing blue jeans and a blue jacket.
• The incident raised security concerns for Jewish institutions amid rising antisemitism across the US, especially following the tragic loss of 2 Israeli Embassy Staff members.

Two staff members from the Israeli embassy died after a shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in downtown Washington DC. The victims, 2 Israeli Embassy Staff, a man and a woman, were leaving an event held at the museum when someone shot them. The attack shocked the local community and raised concerns about safety for diplomats and Jewish institutions. Officials quickly responded to the scene and launched a search for the attacker.

Shooting Took Place in Busy Downtown Area with Many Landmarks

The shooting happened around 9:05 PM near 3rd and F Streets NW, a busy area full of museums, government offices, and tourist attractions. The FBI’s Washington field office sits nearby. Many people were around the area at the time, including multiple Israeli embassy staff attending the museum event. Authorities believe the shooting targeted the 2 Israeli Embassy Staff specifically.

US Homeland Security and Israeli Officials Strongly Condemn the Attack

Kristi Noem, head of US Homeland Security, called the killings “senseless” on social media and urged everyone to pray for the victims’ families. She promised that law enforcement would catch the shooter and deliver justice. Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, described the attack as a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.” He said harming diplomats and the Jewish community crosses a “red line” and expressed confidence that US officials will act decisively against the perpetrator.

Police Responded Quickly, Locking Down Streets and Starting Investigation

The shooting led to a large police presence downtown. Officers blocked off several major streets to secure the area and investigate the crime. Local media confirmed the victims were a man and a woman but have not shared their names yet. The Israeli embassy confirmed that the two staff members were shot at close range during the museum event.

Embassy Spokesperson Confident in Law Enforcement’s Ability to Apprehend Suspect

Tal Naim Cohen, spokesperson for the Israeli embassy, said they trust local and federal law enforcement to catch the shooter. He emphasized the importance of protecting Israeli diplomats and Jewish communities across the United States. Cohen reassured the public that authorities are working hard to find the attacker and keep everyone safe.

Israeli Ambassador Was Not Present During the Shooting

Reports from US media say the Israeli ambassador did not attend the event at the museum on the night of the shooting. This detail suggests the victims were targeted individually and not randomly. The attacker’s motive remains under investigation as police continue their search.

Police Describe Suspect as Man Wearing Blue Jacket and Jeans

Law enforcement officials are actively searching for the attacker. Sources told CBS, the BBC’s US partner, that the suspect is a man with a goatee. He wore blue jeans and a blue jacket at the time of the shooting. Authorities have asked the public to stay alert and report any sightings matching this description.

Nearby Georgetown University Placed on Lockdown During Search

Georgetown University, close to the museum, locked down its campus during the police manhunt. One student said police and security staff told them they could not leave their building for over an hour. The lockdown caused tension but helped keep students safe while officers searched the area.

American Jewish Committee Hosted Event and Expresses Deep Sadness

Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, said his organization hosted the event where the shooting took place. He expressed deep sadness over the “unspeakable act of violence.” Deutch said the committee’s thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families as they await further details from the police.

US Ambassador to Israel Calls Shooting a Horrific Terror Attack

Mike Huckabee, the US Ambassador to Israel, described the attack as a “horrific act of terror.” He said the people of Israel woke up to this terrible news and stand united in grief. Huckabee urged for justice and stronger security to protect diplomats and Jewish communities worldwide.

Jewish Institutions Face Growing Threats from Rising Antisemitism

The Capital Jewish Museum, like many Jewish organizations in the US, has faced increasing security concerns due to rising antisemitism. The museum has worked hard to keep its visitors safe. Many Jewish institutions nationwide remain on high alert amid a worrying climate of hate crimes and threats.

Museum Recently Improved Security Ahead of LGBT Pride Exhibit

Before the attack, the museum received a grant to upgrade its security systems. This funding came partly because of a new exhibit celebrating LGBT pride. The museum’s executive director, Beatrice Gurwitz, said they knew these stories might bring added risks. Still, she said the museum aims to be a welcoming and safe space for everyone who visits.