Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed deep shock and outrage over the fatal shooting of two staff members from the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening near the Capital Jewish Museum.
In a statement from his office, Netanyahu described the attack as an “antisemitic assault” and emphasized the grave consequences of such hatred. “We are witnessing the horrific consequences of antisemitism and incitement against the State of Israel,” he said. “My heart goes out to the families of the young victims, whose lives were tragically cut short.”
Netanyahu held a phone conversation with Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, who briefed him on the details of the incident. The prime minister extended his support to the ambassador and embassy staff, and has instructed Israeli security authorities to enhance protective measures at Israeli diplomatic missions worldwide.
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed the deaths and stated that an investigation is underway. Noem expressed condolences and affirmed the United States’ commitment to ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel.
The international community has responded with condolences and calls for unity against antisemitism and violence. The tragic event has sparked conversations about rising concerns over hate crimes and the importance of combating prejudice.
