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Washington, D.C., May 25, 2025
The fatal shooting of two Israeli Embassy employees near the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., late Wednesday evening has been officially designated an act of terrorism by the FBI. Authorities say the suspect, who is currently in custody, had a documented history of pro-Palestinian activism and appears to have carefully orchestrated the attack.
According to federal investigators, a post condemning Israel’s military operations in Gaza was scheduled and published on one of the suspect’s social media accounts less than an hour after the shooting. This detail, along with other digital evidence recovered in the early stages of the investigation, suggests premeditation and a political motive behind the attack.
On Thursday, federal agents in tactical gear raided the suspect’s home in Chicago, collecting electronic devices, writings, and other materials believed to be connected to the incident. Neighbors reported a large law enforcement presence in the early morning hours and said the suspect had lived at the address for several years.
FBI Director Kash Patel, speaking at a press conference Thursday afternoon, stated that the agency is treating the case as “an act of targeted terrorism.” Patel emphasized the seriousness of the incident and reiterated the Bureau’s commitment to preventing politically motivated violence on U.S. soil.
“This was not a random act of violence,” Patel said. “The victims were targeted specifically because of their affiliation with the Israeli government. We are pursuing this case aggressively and are working closely with both U.S. and international partners.”
The identities of the victims, both employees of the Israeli Embassy, have not yet been released pending notification of their families. The Israeli government has condemned the attack and is coordinating with U.S. officials during the investigation.
Security has been heightened at Jewish institutions and diplomatic facilities across the country following the shooting, amid fears of further politically motivated violence. Community leaders and law enforcement agencies have urged vigilance and unity during what many are describing as a time of heightened tension.
The shooting comes amid ongoing global protests and political unrest related to the war in Gaza, which has sparked intense debate and demonstrations in cities around the world. U.S. intelligence agencies have previously warned of the potential for lone-wolf attacks fueled by international conflicts and online radicalization.
The suspect is expected to appear in federal court in the coming days, where he will likely face terrorism-related charges in addition to multiple counts of homicide. Prosecutors have indicated they will seek the maximum penalties under federal law.
FBI-Picture-on-Wikimedia-by-Shinsuke-Ikegame
