Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota found herself in the spotlight on Thursday when she declined to comment on a tragic shooting incident outside the U.S. Capitol.
The incident, which resulted in the deaths of two Israeli Embassy staffers, has drawn significant attention. The alleged shooter, Elias Rodriguez, a 31-year-old with apparent pro-Palestinian leanings, reportedly opened fire on a group of individuals as they left the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. This act of violence claimed the lives of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim.
When approached by Fox News Capitol Hill producer Dan Scully for her reaction to the shooting, Omar chose not to engage. Scully inquired, Congresswoman Omar, can I get your reaction to the shooting that happened in D.C. last night? Omar responded, Im gonna go for now, as she proceeded to a waiting vehicle.
According to the Daily Caller, Rodriguez was observed "pacing back and forth" outside the museum before allegedly discharging a handgun at the group. Law enforcement officials reported that Rodriguez shouted "free Palestine" during his arrest, suggesting a targeted attack. Omar, known for her outspoken criticism of Israel, has previously been supported by the National Students for Justice in Palestine, a prominent pro-Palestinian organization with a presence in numerous American universities.
Her past remarks have included accusations against the U.S. for "backing crimes against humanity" in the context of Israel's conflict with Hamas, prompting a 2021 congressional resolution to censure her.
Later, Omar took to X to express her dismay over the incident, stating, I am appalled by the deadly shooting at the Capital Jewish Museum last night. Holding the victims, their families, and loved ones in my thoughts and prayers. Violence should have no place in our country.
The investigation into this tragic event is being conducted collaboratively by federal officials and the DC Metro Police Department. Attorney General Pam Bondi assured the public that Rodriguez would face the full force of the law, while extending her sympathies to the victims' families.
No parents should have to be called and told that their children were violently murdered leaving a religious event at the Jewish Museum. That should never happen in this world and not in our country and this person will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, Bondi stated on Fox News Americas Newsroom.
Yechiel Leiter, Israels ambassador to the U.S., shared a poignant detail with reporters, revealing that Lischinsky had intended to propose to Milgrim, having already selected an engagement ring.
President Donald Trump also addressed the incident on Truth Social, condemning the violence and calling for an end to "hatred and radicalism." He remarked, These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!
This incident underscores the ongoing tensions and challenges surrounding antisemitism and violence, raising questions about the broader implications for security and community relations in the United States.
Login