In a shocking incident that unfolded in Washington, D.C., two Israeli embassy staff members were tragically killed on Wednesday as they were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum building.
The alleged perpetrator, Elias Rodriguez, a pro-Palestinian Marxist from Chicago, was reported to have shouted, "Free, free Palestine!" following his apprehension.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry labeled the incident a "brutal terrorist attack," a sentiment echoed by many, including Democratic Rep. Jess "Chuy" Garca (Ill.). Garca expressed his condolences, stating, "My heart is with the victims, and everyone impacted by the attack. We mourn the lives lost and reject the idea that justice can be won through violence."
However, as reported by The Blaze, an intriguing connection between Garca and the alleged assailant has been brought to light by The New York Post. The link is through the suspect's father, Eric Rodriguez, who was Garca's guest at President Donald Trump's joint address to Congress on March 3.
Garca introduced Eric Rodriguez as "a constituent of the district, resident of West Lawn, disabled Army veteran, frontline VA worker, and union steward in the Service Employees International Union." He further praised Eric, saying, "Eric represents the very best of our community someone who has served his country, continues to serve his fellow veterans, and fights every day to protect the dignity of working people."
When questioned about his association with the father of the alleged murderer, a representative for the Democrat told the Post, "Eric Rodriguez was our guest during the Presidents Joint Speech to Congress, but we don't know his family."
The shared connection with Eric Rodriguez is not the only commonality between Garca and the suspected shooter. They also seem to share similar political views on Israel and Palestinian activism. Garca's legislative actions and political decisions have earned him a B-score from the Americans for Justice in Palestine Action.
The FBI's charging affidavit reveals that after allegedly killing Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, the suspect told Washington Metropolitan Police, "I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza, I am unarmed." As he was led away by the police, Rodriguez reportedly shouted, "Free Palestine!"
Blaze News has previously reported that Rodriguez, a University of Illinois graduate and a donor to Joe Biden's 2020 campaign, has a history of anti-white commentary. He has also been associated with the pro-Palestinian group Party for Socialism and Liberation.
Before the fatal shooting, Rodriguez is believed to have posted a manifesto titled "Escalate for Gaza, Bring the War Home." FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed, "The FBI is aware of certain writings allegedly authored by the suspect, and we hope to have updates as to the authenticity very soon."
The manifesto, allegedly authored by Rodriguez, accuses Israel of "genocide" and asserts that "the perpetrators and abettors have forfeited their humanity."
On Thursday, Rodriguez was informed that he was being held on charges of murder of foreign officials, causing the death of a person through the use of a firearm, discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of first-degree murder, as reported by WUSA-TV.
Magistrate Judge Matthew Sharbaugh informed the accused Marxist that he could potentially face the death penalty if found guilty. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions and conflicts surrounding the Israel-Palestine issue, and the tragic consequences that can result from extremist views and actions.
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