Washington, DC [US], May 23 (ANI): The White House has issued its strongest condemnation yet following the tragic murder of two Israeli diplomats outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, calling the act an appalling manifestation of antisemitic hatred.
During a press briefing on Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt conveyed President Donald Trump’s deep sorrow and outrage over the killings. “President Trump is saddened and outraged over the brutal murder of two Israeli embassy staff here in Washington, D.C. last night. Yaron Leshinsky and Sarah Milgram were a beautiful young couple. In fact, we learned that Yaron was planning to propose to Sarah next week in Jerusalem,” Leavitt stated.
Quoting Yaron’s grieving father, Daniel Leshinsky, she added, “They were in love, one for the other. The embassy told us they were like a star couple at the embassy. I never expected something like this. He had his whole life before him.”
“These words,” Leavitt said, “especially to every parent, are heart-wrenching. The evil of antisemitism must be eradicated from our society.”
Leavitt confirmed that she had spoken with Attorney General Pam Bondi, who assured her that the Department of Justice would prosecute the suspect to the fullest extent of the law. “Hatred has no place in the United States of America under President Donald Trump. Everyone here at the White House is praying for the victims’ friends and families during this unimaginable time,” she added.
Attorney General Bondi, speaking at the site of the attack, confirmed that the national threat level has been elevated for all Americans. Enhanced security measures were implemented immediately following the incident. “US Marshals are coordinating closely to protect our embassy and ambassador while this investigation remains active,” she said, urging citizens across the country to remain vigilant.
Leavitt also detailed existing administration efforts to combat antisemitism, referencing President Trump’s executive order establishing the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism. She noted that measures include student visa enforcement policies intended to prevent hate-fueled extremism on campuses.
The attack, which occurred outside the Capital Jewish Museum, resulted in the deaths of two Israeli Embassy staff members. The suspect, identified by DC police as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, reportedly posed as a bystander after the shooting. According to CNN, he surrendered upon police arrival, shouting “Free, Free Palestine” while being handcuffed.
Authorities say Rodriguez “implied that he committed the offense.” Investigations are ongoing, with officials considering motives including terrorism and antisemitism, though no definitive conclusion has yet been drawn.
Security has since been heightened around the Israeli Embassy, where flags fly at half-staff and mourners continue to leave flowers and tributes in memory of the slain diplomats. (ANI)
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