Embassy Attack Suspect Confesses: ‘I Did It for Palestine, Gaza’

Elias Rodriguez, a 31-year-old man, stands accused of the fatal shootings of two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington. The victims, an American woman and an Israeli man, were shot outside a Jewish museum. Following his arrest, Rodriguez reportedly stated, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza,” according to federal authorities who announced the charges and labelled the killings as targeted acts of terrorism.

The incident occurred on a Wednesday night, shortly after the victims left an event at the museum. Further reports indicate that the victims had plans to become engaged. In response to the attack, Israeli missions have heightened their security measures and lowered their flags to half-staff.

The act of violence comes amidst Israel’s ongoing major offensive in the Gaza Strip, a situation which has increased tensions across the Middle East and internationally. This raises important questions about the potential for such conflicts to trigger violence within the U.S., a concern that law enforcement officials have repeatedly voiced.

The facts indicate that Rodriguez faces charges of murder of foreign officials and other crimes. Additional charges are expected as authorities continue their investigation, treating the incident as both a hate crime against the Jewish community and an act of terrorism.

This act of violence has been met with condemnation. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky, an Israeli citizen, and Sarah Milgrim, an American, were remembered by friends and colleagues as warm, vibrant, and dedicated to the promotion of peace and bridging cultural and religious divides. Their loss has deeply shaken the community.

An FBI affidavit suggests the act was planned. Rodriguez reportedly travelled from Chicago to Washington with a handgun in his checked luggage. On the day of the event, he purchased a ticket just three hours before its start. After the shooting, Rodriguez was apprehended inside the museum, no longer armed, and reportedly admitted to his actions.

The accused admired an Air Force member who self-immolated outside the Israeli Embassy in 2024, describing him as “courageous” and a “martyr.” Investigators continue to analyze writings purported to be authored by Rodriguez expressing outrage over Israel’s conduct in the war.