Israeli leaders have expressed deep sympathy and strong support for the United States after a deadly attack in Washington, DC, claimed the lives of two National Guard members in what authorities are investigating as a terror incident.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar led the outpouring of Israeli condolences following reports that an Afghan national opened fire at close range near the White House, killing two American service members in an ambush-style attack.
“Shocked and deeply saddened by the deadly shooting in Washington DC today,” Sa’ar posted on social media. “My thoughts are with the families of the two brave National Guardsmen that were killed. We stand in solidarity with the United States, the American people and the president of the United States.”
Shocked and deeply saddened by the deadly shooting in Washington D.C. today. My thoughts are with the families of the two brave National Guardsmen that were killed.
We stand in solidarity with the United States, the American people and @POTUS .— Gideon Sa’ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) November 26, 2025
The gunman was identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national who reportedly entered the country under the Biden administration’s 2021 evacuation effort and overstayed his visa. US officials said the shooter targeted the guardsmen at “point-blank range,” with President Donald Trump describing it as “a monstrous, ambush-style attack just steps from the White House.”
“This was an act of evil, hatred and terror,” Trump said in a televised address, vowing that the attacker would face swift justice. He also ordered the deployment of 500 additional troops to bolster security in the capital.
Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon joined in condemning the violence: “I pray for the two National Guardsmen who were shot in downtown Washington, DC, today. I hope justice is swiftly served to the terrorist behind this atrocious attack.”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog sent “heartfelt condolences” and emphasized the deep bond between the two nations. “From Israel, we send a message of friendship and solidarity to President Trump and all those serving in and around the White House,” Herzog said. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with our greatest friend and ally, the United States of America.”
With deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences, we in Israel are following the tragic news from Washington DC, where two National Guard soldiers have been murdered in a terrible attack near the White House. Our deepest sympathies go to their families and loved ones.
From Israel, we…
— יצחק הרצוג Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) November 26, 2025
The incident has reignited debate in the US over immigration and national security, with Republican lawmakers calling for a comprehensive review of visa approvals from Afghanistan. The victims, reportedly from the West Virginia National Guard, were initially declared dead, though later reports indicated conflicting updates on their condition.
As the investigation unfolds, both nations are unified in mourning the loss and confronting the broader implications of terrorism and border security.
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