Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old Chicago native, was arrested and charged with multiple federal crimes, including first-degree murder, for fatally shooting two Israeli embassy workers outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on May 21. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were a young couple known for advocating peace between Arabs and Jews. The attack occurred after an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee. Rodriguez reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” upon arrest, leading authorities to investigate the incident as a hate crime and act of terrorism. He had prior affiliations with far-left activist groups, though these ties had lapsed years earlier. In response, New York City heightened security and leaders across religious and ethnic communities condemned the violence, emphasizing unity against hate. Civil rights and religious leaders highlighted the dangers of incendiary rhetoric, while the investigation into Rodriguez’s motives and potential further charges continues.
"The agencies concerned are looking into the matter…. Let them finish their investigations," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.
Scores of students from JNU, Jamia Millia Islamia and Delhi University had gathered to take part in the protest. Police had erected barricades to stop them from reaching the embassy at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Road.
A car belonging to the Israeli Embassy caught fire after a minor explosion in Delhi's Tughlak Road on Monday injuring two people. An Israeli Embassy spokesman said that the car was near the embassy when the incident occurred and added that one of those injured was a woman diplomat.