A man accused of fatally shooting two Israeli Embassy staff members in Washington, D.C., last year faces additional terrorism charges as revealed in a newly unsealed indictment on Wednesday. The updated charges, totaling nine, include hate crimes and carry severe penalties such as life imprisonment or the death penalty, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Elias Rodriguez, 31, allegedly opened fire at individuals leaving an event organized by the American Jewish Committee, targeting young professionals and diplomats. Prosecutors claim he discharged around 20 rounds from a semi-automatic handgun while proclaiming “Free Palestine.”
The victims, Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, 26, who were employed at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, lost their lives in the incident. Rodriguez’s legal representatives have not yet commented on the case.
FBI Assistant Director Darren B. Cox stated that Rodriguez authored a manifesto to rationalize his actions morally and incite others to engage in political violence. The shooting, denounced globally, occurred amidst heightened tensions, including student demonstrations, in the U.S. concerning the conflict in Gaza.
The escalation in Gaza was triggered by an attack by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023, resulting in over 1,200 casualties among Israelis and foreign nationals. Subsequently, over 470 Israeli soldiers have died in the ground operation in Gaza. Gaza health authorities report that more than 70,000 Palestinians have lost their lives since the same date in 2023.