The horrifying terror attack that claimed the lives of two Israeli embassy staffers outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night has drawn strong condemnation from Rockland County leaders and elected officials across New York State.
Authorities have identified the gunman as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago. According to reports, Rodriguez shouted “Free Palestine!” while being taken into custody, and eyewitnesses say he declared, “I did it for Gaza.” The two victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, were a young couple who had just attended a “Young Diplomats Reception” hosted by the American Jewish Committee. Both were shot at close range as they exited the museum.
Rockland County Executive Ed Day expressed heartbreak over the loss and called for unity against hate. “Our hearts break for the two innocent Israeli embassy workers killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum. Racism, bigotry, discrimination, and political violence in any form are not only morally repugnant but also a threat to the foundations of a just and harmonious society. The County of Rockland believes in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background. An attack on one is an attack on all. We must stand united and refuse to let fear and prejudice divide us.”
Congressman Mike Lawler called the killings a heinous act of antisemitic violence. “Shocked and saddened by this act of violence right in the heart of the nation’s capital. My prayers are with the Jewish people and the Israeli embassy staff as they mourn. May the perpetrator be swiftly served justice.”
State Senator Bill Weber condemned the attack and emphasized the broader threat posed by growing antisemitism. “I was horrified to learn of this senseless act of violence in our nation’s capital, where two young Jewish individuals—who were reportedly about to be engaged—were tragically shot at point-blank range. There is a disturbing rise in antisemitism across America. It is incumbent on each of us to confront this hatred before it leads to even more needless bloodshed.”
Governor Kathy Hochul also issued a strong statement, calling the attack a stark reminder of the dangers of hate-fueled extremism. “I am horrified by the murder of two Israeli Embassy staffers at the Capital Jewish Museum. Antisemitism is a threat to all of us. This act of terrorism is a painful reminder that we must continue to fight it wherever it rears its ugly head. In an abundance of caution, we are increasing security measures at houses of worship and other vulnerable sites across the state to ensure all New Yorkers feel safe.”
Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht added that local law enforcement is working to increase visibility and protection. “We are outraged by the brutal, antisemitic murder of two young individuals in Washington, D.C. This horrific act demands a thorough investigation. To our Jewish community: We stand with you. We are intensifying our commitment to vigilance and security. Our Police Chief is working closely with Sheriff Louis Falco to increase law enforcement visibility throughout the Town of Ramapo. We urge all residents to remain alert and to report any suspicious activity immediately.”
For more details on the incident, see the original report by Yeshiva World News: Click Here.