By Laura Pardo 
Late Wednesday night, two Israeli diplomats—a man and a woman—were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., following a diplomatic event hosted by the American Jewish Committee. The pair were among a group of four individuals associated with the Israeli embassy.
Suspect Identified as Elias Rodriguez
According to Capitol Police Chief statements, the sole suspect in the shooting is 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez, a male resident of Chicago, Illinois. Authorities believe Rodriguez approached the group, opened fire, and then attempted to flee into the museum, where he was subsequently detained by security and law enforcement.
Possible Political Motivation
During his arrest, Rodriguez reportedly shouted “Free, free Palestine” and unfurled a red keffiyeh, signaling potential political or ideological motivations. This has led investigators to consider connections to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a possible factor in the attack. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is involved in the case, with the incident being investigated as a potential hate crime or act of terrorism.
Israeli Media and Official Responses
Israeli media has widely reported on the incident, underscoring the gravity of the attack and its implications for diplomatic security. Israeli officials, including President Isaac Herzog, denounced the act as a “despicable act of hatred,” while UN Ambassador Danny Danon condemned it as “anti-Semitic terrorism.” The victims were described as a young couple planning to become engaged during a trip to Jerusalem, highlighting the personal tragedy alongside the political implications.
Unconfirmed Links to Political Organization
Multiple unconfirmed social media posts have surfaced attempting to tie Rodriguez to the Chicago chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL). These posts began circulating shortly after officials released the suspect’s identity and hometown. While no formal affiliation has been confirmed by authorities, these reports claim Rodriguez had previously attended pro-Gaza demonstrations across the United States. National media outlets have echoed these claims, though with caution regarding their verification status.
U.S. Government and Public Response
Top U.S. officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, have pledged a full investigation and justice for the victims. Former President Donald Trump issued a statement condemning the attack, emphasizing that “hatred and radicalism have no place in the USA.”