May 22, 2025 — Washington, DC
American Jewish Committee (AJC) CEO Ted Deutch released the following statement following the confirmation from government officials that two individuals were shot and killed this evening while leaving AJC’s annual Young Diplomats reception in Washington, D.C.:
“We are devastated that two cherished friends and partners from the Israeli embassy were shot and killed as they left an American Jewish Committee (AJC) event at the Capital Jewish Museum earlier this evening. This is a shocking act of violence and our community is holding each other tighter tonight.
“At this painful moment, we mourn with the victims’ families, loved ones, and all of Israel. May their memories be for a blessing.
“While we wait for the conclusion of the police investigation – and urge all our friends and allies to do the same – it strongly appears that this was an attack motivated by hate against the Jewish people and the Jewish state. This senseless hate and violence must stop.
“We thank President Trump and his administration, Mayor Bowser and her administration, and all other relevant law enforcement and government officials in D.C and nationally for their swift action and support.
“At moments like these, the Jewish community stands strongly together. We are also immensely grateful for the outpouring of support from our friends and allies around the world."
AJC is the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people. With headquarters in New York, 25 regional offices across the United States, 15 overseas posts, as well as partnerships with 38 Jewish community organizations worldwide, AJC’s mission is to enhance the well-being of the Jewish people and Israel and to advance human rights and democratic values in the United States and around the world. For more, please visit www.ajc.org.
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