Israeli citizens expressed deep shock and sorrow on Thursday following the fatal shooting of two embassy staff members in Washington, D.C. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a "horrifying antisemitic murder."
The attack occurred as the two aides were departing an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee at the Capital Jewish Museum. Authorities apprehended a suspect at the scene, who reportedly shouted "Free, free Palestine" upon arrest.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry identified the victims as Sarah Lynn Milgrim, who managed organizational missions and visits to Israel, and Yaron Lischinsky, a political department research assistant. Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter confirmed the couple was engaged to be married.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the attack as a direct result of "toxic antisemitic incitement against Israel and Jewish communities worldwide" that has intensified since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023.
Saar criticized international figures and organizations who have accused Israel of genocide and crimes against humanity, stating that such allegations "have laid the groundwork for these violent acts." Israel has firmly denied these charges.
The conflict began with a surprise assault by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths in Israel and the abduction of around 250 individuals taken hostage to Gaza. Over eighteen months later, local health authorities in Gaza report more than 53,000 fatalities, though these figures do not differentiate between civilians and combatants.
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