Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. Danny Dannon and American Jewish Committee CEO Ted Deutch are responding forcefully after a deadly shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., left two Israeli Embassy staffers dead. Witnesses say the suspect repeatedly shouted “Free Palestine” while being taken into custody by police.

According to Breitbart, the attack took place Wednesday night during an event for young Israeli diplomats hosted at the museum. The Metropolitan Police Department quickly responded to the scene and is currently questioning a person of interest in connection to what officials are calling an “unspeakable act of violence.”

Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic aftermath, with one museum visitor seeking refuge inside before revealing a keffiyeh and shouting pro-Palestinian slogans. The shooting has already drawn strong criticism from Jewish leaders and is being investigated as a potential act of antisemitic terrorism.

Event for Diplomats Turns Deadly

A gathering meant to foster diplomacy turned into a scene of tragedy as gunfire erupted outside the Capital Jewish Museum. The event, reportedly organized for young Israeli diplomats, was interrupted when at least two staffers from the Israeli Embassy were gunned down. Police and emergency responders arrived within minutes, but the victims could not be saved.

Reporter Josh Kraushaar of Jewish Insider first broke the news on social media. He relayed statements from sources familiar with the incident, confirming two Israeli Embassy staff members had been killed just outside the museum’s entrance. Security in the area was immediately heightened as authorities locked down the surrounding blocks.

As police secured the perimeter, a witness told Kraushaar that the alleged shooter entered the museum seeking water and safety, only to dramatically reveal a keffiyeh and begin shouting “Free Palestine.” The suspect was swiftly detained by law enforcement officers, who are now piecing together the sequence of events that led to the attack.

Claims of Antisemitic Motive

The motive behind the deadly assault has become a focal point for both investigators and community leaders. Ambassador Danny Dannon labeled the shooting as “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism,” emphasizing the gravity of targeting Jewish community members and diplomats on American soil.

Dannon expressed confidence that U.S. authorities would take decisive action. He stated,

The fatal shooting that took place outside the event that took place at the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. is a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism. Harming the Jewish community is crossing a red line. We are confident that the US authorities will take strong action against those responsible for this criminal act. Israel will continue to act resolutely to protect its citizens and representatives – everywhere in the world.

Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, released a statement expressing heartbreak over the violence and solidarity with the victims and their families. Deutch underscored the need for patience as the investigation continues while emphasizing the deep sense of loss felt across the Jewish community.

Law enforcement officials have not yet released the name of the suspect or additional details about the investigation but have urged the public to avoid the area and await further updates.

Security Fears and Political Responses

Heightened security concerns now grip both the Jewish community and foreign diplomatic missions in Washington, D.C. Police set up a media staging area at Metropolitan Police Headquarters as they worked to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The rapid response and ongoing investigation demonstrate the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident.

President Donald Trump addressed the tragedy on Truth Social, assuring the public that law enforcement is taking every possible measure to safeguard the city and prevent further violence. His remarks echoed the sentiments of many Americans who are demanding answers and accountability after such a brazen attack.