Tragedy in D.C.: Embassy Staff Killed

A horrific incident unfolded in Washington, D.C., Wednesday evening, leaving two Israeli embassy staff members dead. Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, reportedly engaged to be married, were attacked while leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum.

Suspect Apprehended, Ties Explored

Just hours after the tragic homicides, authorities arrested 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago. Reports indicate Rodriguez is linked to the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL), a Marxist, pro-Palestinian organization. Online images allegedly show Rodriguez at a 2017 Black Lives Matter protest in Chicago. Furthermore, Reuters reports that he worked as an oral history researcher at a nonprofit focused on preserving African American stories.

Alabama Reacts to D.C. Killings

As D.C. and the Jewish community reel from this apparent targeted attack, Alabama's Republican officials have offered their condolences and condemnations of antisemitism.

Silence from Some Alabama Democrats

Notably, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell and Shomari Figures, both Democrats representing Alabama, have yet to publicly comment on the incident, which the FBI is investigating as a possible hate crime and terror attack.

Bipartisan Condemnation from Alabama Israel Legislative Caucus

The Alabama Israel Legislative Caucus, a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, released a statement calling the killings a "hate crime and act of terrorism against innocent people on American soil."

Strong Words from Alabama Leaders

Senator Tommy Tuberville described the murders as "devastating" and labeled Rodriguez a "TERRORIST." Senator Katie Britt stated that the deaths represent an attack on Jews everywhere. Congressman Mike Rogers urged Americans to unite to "eliminate antisemitism," while Congressman Barry Moore lamented the senselessness of the assailant's actions. Governor Kay Ivey asserted the victims were killed in the name of "Free Palestine."

Calls for Justice

Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth demanded Rodriguez face the "ultimate penalty" for his crimes, which he attributed to "ungodly beliefs." Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall denounced the radical ideology he believes fueled the killings.