Two employees of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, were fatally shot on Wednesday evening near the Capital Jewish Museum, in what Israeli officials have described as a targeted anti-Semitic terror incident.

The shooting unfolded close to the FBI's Washington Field Office in the city's northwest quadrant. US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed the fatalities on social media, adding that federal and local law enforcement agencies were jointly investigating the tragedy.

“Two members of the Israeli Embassy were tragically killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. Investigations are ongoing, and we’re working to gather more details. Our hearts go out to the victims’ families. We will ensure justice is served,” Noem wrote on X.

Though the victims' names have not yet been disclosed, local media has reported that both individuals were part of Israel’s diplomatic staff in the US. The Israeli Embassy acknowledged the loss but noted that the ambassador was not present at the scene during the incident.

FBI Director Kash Patel stated that he had received an update on the shooting and assured the public that all relevant agencies were actively responding.

“My team has been briefed on the tragic shooting that occurred tonight near our Washington Field Office and the Capital Jewish Museum. We are coordinating closely with the Metropolitan Police Department. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” Patel said.

Police units arrived shortly after the attack was reported. Authorities secured the museum’s vicinity and began reviewing security footage and speaking to potential witnesses to piece together the sequence of events.

The Capital Jewish Museum, which relocated to its current address in 2023, was hosting an event organized by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) at the time of the shooting. AJC CEO Ted Deutch issued a statement expressing sorrow: “We are heartbroken that such horrific violence occurred near our gathering.”

Top federal officials, including US Attorney General Pam Bondi and acting US Attorney for DC Jeanine Pirro, visited the site following the incident. Bondi confirmed that a coordinated federal response is underway and promised further updates as information becomes available.

Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon also condemned the violence, calling it a "heinous and hateful act of anti-Semitic terrorism" in a message shared on X.