Man Accused of Killing Israeli Embassy Staffers Pleads Not Guilty

Elias Rodriguez faces terrorism charges for alleged shooting outside D.C. museum event

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The lead suspect in the deaths of two Israel embassy staffers outside an event at the Capital Jewish Museum last May, Elias Rodriguez, has pleaded not guilty to more than a dozen charges, including multiple terrorism-related charges. Rodriguez is accused of opening fire on the staffers, killing Yaron Lischinsky, an Israeli citizen, and Sarah Milgrim, an American from Overland Park, Kansas, and injuring two others.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions and violence between Israelis and Palestinians, with the alleged shooter claiming he committed the act 'for Palestine' and 'for Gaza'. It also raises concerns about security at diplomatic events and the threat of domestic terrorism.

The details

According to a new, superseding indictment, Rodriguez is facing 13 charges, including multiple terrorism-related charges, for the shooting that occurred on May 21 last year outside an event sponsored by the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C. Rodriguez reportedly shouted 'I did it for Palestine. I did it for Gaza' after firing his gun.

  • On May 21 last year, Rodriguez is alleged to have shot two Israeli diplomats outside the Capital Jewish Museum of Washington, DC.
  • Rodriguez will appear in court again on May 5 for a status hearing.

The players

Elias Rodriguez

The lead suspect in the deaths of two Israel embassy staffers, who has pleaded not guilty to more than a dozen charges, including multiple terrorism-related charges.

Yaron Lischinsky

An Israeli citizen who was killed in the shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum event.

Sarah Milgrim

An American from Overland Park, Kansas, who was killed in the shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum event.

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What they’re saying

“I did it for Palestine. I did it for Gaza”

— Elias Rodriguez (azfamily.com)

What’s next

If convicted, Rodriguez faces up to life in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions and violence between Israelis and Palestinians, as well as the threat of domestic terrorism targeting diplomatic events and personnel.