On the evening of May 21, 2025, two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., were fatally shot outside the Lillian & Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum. The victims, a man and a woman, had just attended the Young Diplomats Reception, an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee aimed at fostering unity between Jewish professionals and the diplomatic community .

The shooting occurred around 9:05 p.m. near 3rd and F Streets NW, close to significant federal buildings, including the FBI’s Washington field office and the U.S. Attorney’s office . Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the deaths, describing the act as “senseless” and assuring that efforts are underway to bring the perpetrator to justice

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, condemned the attack as a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism” and expressed confidence in U.S. authorities to take strong action against those responsible . The Israeli Embassy’s spokesperson, Tal Naim Cohen, stated that the victims were shot at close range and emphasized trust in both local and federal law enforcement to apprehend the shooter and protect Israel’s representatives and Jewish communities throughout the United States .

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation, collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Department. A suspect has been taken into custody, and during the arrest, reportedly shouted “Free Palestine,” suggesting a possible political motive . However, authorities have not officially confirmed the motive, and investigations are ongoing.

The incident has heightened security concerns for Jewish institutions nationwide. Beatrice Gurwitz, Executive Director of the Capital Jewish Museum, noted that the museum had recently received a grant to enhance security due to rising antisemitism .

This tragic event underscores the persistent threats faced by diplomatic and Jewish communities and has prompted calls for increased vigilance and protection measures.