May 22, 2025, New York, NY – The American Jewish Congress is shocked and horrified by the brutal murder of Yarin Leshinsky and Sarah Milgram, two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., who were gunned down outside the Capital Jewish Museum.
CNN reported that the DC police arrested the shooter who chanted “Free, Free Palestine” while he was arrested.
Daniel Rosen, President of the American Jewish Congress, condemned the antisemitic incitement that has been escalating in the lead-up to this tragic event, stating that: “For those who claim “globalize the intifada” is peaceful and not antisemitic, the horrifying shooting of two young Jewish adults is proof that you are wrong. Words matter. Just because one person pulls the trigger doesn’t mean they acted alone.”
This heinous act of terror, carried out in the heart of our capital, is a direct result of rising antisemitism across the United States: in our streets, on college campuses, within government institutions, and in international forums. We must stand united as a community, care for one another, and fight antisemitism with all our strength.
Following the attack, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a directive to all Israeli missions in the U.S. to suspend community events. The guidance includes a recommendation to avoid gatherings at synagogues until further notice as a precaution. In the hours following the attack, embassy staff in Washington were ordered to remain at home. Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, said the victims were a couple who had planned to get engaged next week in Jerusalem.
The American Jewish Congress extends its deepest condolences to the families of Yarin and Sarah and remains steadfast in our commitment to combating the rising tide of antisemitism in the U.S. and around the world.
