U.S. charges suspect with terrorism in killing of two Israeli diplomats

U.S. charges suspect with terrorism for killing two Israeli diplomats, adding nine counts including hate crimes and potential life sentences.

A man ​accused of killing two Israeli diplomats in Washington, ‌D.C., last year was indicted on four ​additional counts of terrorism, in a new indictment that was unsealed on Wednesday (February 4, 2026).

The new indictment includes nine charges, including hate crimes, filed earlier. Several of the charges carry a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District ​of Columbia said.

“These additional terrorism-related charges carry ⁠a mandatory life sentence under D.C. Code, while also reflecting the reality that this act was in fact an act of ​terror,” U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris ⁠Pirro said in a statement.

Prosecutors accuse Elias Rodriguez, 31, of opening fire on people leaving an event for young professionals and diplomats hosted by the ‌American Jewish Committee, an advocacy group that fights ‌antisemitism and supports Israel.

He fired approximately 20 shots from a semi-automatic handgun, and called ‍out “Free Palestine,” according to prosecutors.

Lawyers for Rodriguez did not immediately respond to requests for comment.