Death Penalty Weighed in DC Israeli Staffers Shooting

Elias Rodriguez, 31, has been indicted on two counts of hate crimes resulting in death and two counts of assault with intent to kill after allegedly shooting and killing Israeli Embassy staffers Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., in May. Prosecutors allege Rodriguez flew from Chicago with a handgun and purchased a ticket to the event where the victims were present. Authorities state Rodriguez fired about 20 shots at the victims and shouted 'Free Palestine' after the attack, with court documents and his social media posts indicating antisemitic motivation and anger over Gaza. The Department of Justice is considering seeking the death penalty, with Attorney General Pam Bondi to make the final decision after review. The case has sparked condemnation from officials, with renewed calls to protect Jewish communities and embassy staff in the U.S. The Justice Department has reiterated its commitment to prosecuting violence motivated by hatred of faith or national origin.