A man facing charges for the fatal shooting of two Israeli Embassy staff members in Washington, D.C., last year has been indicted on four additional terrorism-related counts. The new indictment, revealed on Wednesday, expands the case with a total of nine charges, including hate crimes, some of which could lead to the maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro stated that the new terrorism charges mandate a life sentence under D.C. Code, emphasizing the act as a terrorist act. The accused, Elias Rodriguez, aged 31, allegedly opened fire at individuals leaving an event organized by the American Jewish Committee, targeting young professionals and diplomats. During the incident, he discharged around 20 rounds from a semi-automatic handgun while shouting “Free Palestine,” as alleged by prosecutors.
The victims, Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, 26, both employed at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, tragically lost their lives in the shooting. Rodriguez’s legal representatives have not yet provided any comments on the matter.
FBI Assistant Director Darren B. Cox mentioned that Rodriguez had written and distributed a manifesto to justify his actions morally and incite others to engage in political violence. The shooting, which drew global condemnation, occurred amidst heightened tensions in the United States, including student demonstrations, linked to the conflict in Gaza.
The conflict in Gaza stemmed from Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The Israeli military operation in Gaza following the attack led to numerous fatalities, including Israeli soldiers and Palestinian civilians.
The tragic incident has sparked discussions on terrorism, anti-Semitism, and political violence, prompting authorities to address these critical issues.
