VIDEO: Two 'Israeli' Embassy staff shot dead outside Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C.

Two 'Israeli' Embassy employees were shot and killed near the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., in what US officials are calling a targeted attack.

The gunman, identified by authorities as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, is in custody.

According to an American security source, Rodriguez fired approximately 10 rounds from close range before calmly sitting near the scene. The attack took place shortly after Rodriguez was seen wandering inside the museum, before exiting and opening fire at the entrance.

Witnesses and investigators say the suspect shouted pro-Palestinian phrases during the attack and later told police, “I did it for Gaza,” while in custody.

Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed Rodriguez’s identity and said the suspect had no prior criminal record. “He appeared to act alone,” Smith said during a press conference. “There is no indication at this time that he is affiliated with any organization.”

The FBI, which is now leading the investigation alongside local law enforcement, said there were no prior warnings or threats related to the incident. Assistant Director Steve Jensen of the FBI’s Washington Field Office noted that authorities are investigating whether the attack may qualify as a hate crime or terrorism-related offense.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser assured the public there is “no active threat in our community,” while US media reported that the area remains under heightened security as authorities continue their search for evidence.

In response to the attack, 'Israeli' President Isaac Herzog condemned the shooting, calling it “a despicable act of hatred, of antisemitism.” In a statement on X, Herzog expressed condolences to the families of the victims and affirmed his support for the embassy staff. “America and Israel will stand united in defence of our people and our shared values,” he wrote. “Terror and hate will not break us.”

The victims have not yet been publicly identified. The Israeli Embassy has not released an official statement.