Netanyahu Links Washington Embassy Shooting to Hostility Over Gaza

 

Netanyahu Links Washington Embassy Shooting to Hostility Over Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu characterized the recent shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington as a manifestation of rising antisemitism and hostility linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The incident involved a suspect who reportedly chanted pro-Palestinian slogans before shooting Yaron Lischinsky, a researcher at the Israeli embassy, and Sarah Milgrim, an administrative assistant.

Netanyahu condemned the attack as "a despicable act of hatred and antisemitism," explicitly connecting it to the increasingly hostile global climate toward Israel amid its military operations in Gaza. He emphasized that the violence reflects broader anti-Israel incitement, which he attributed to "leaders and officials of many countries and organizations, especially from Europe."

See also: Israel Accuses Europe of 'Antisemitic Incitement' Following Washington D.C. Shooting

The Prime Minister also addressed ongoing geopolitical tensions, noting that Israel’s military campaign in Gaza—launched after Hamas’s attack in October 2023—continues relentlessly, with over 53,000 Palestinians killed and widespread destruction. Despite rising international criticism, Netanyahu indicated that the Israeli military operations would not change, framing the conflict as an "existential" struggle.

The incident at the embassy has inflamed tensions with European nations, which have expressed concern. The European Union announced it would review its ties with Israel due to the situation in Gaza, and countries including the UK, France, and Canada warned of possible “concrete actions” if Israel does not halt its offensive.

Netanyahu linked the attack to broader anti-Israel sentiments worldwide, underscoring that antisemitic incidents in the US have surged significantly over the past decade. The attack has also sparked international debates about rising antisemitism amid the ongoing conflict, with some calling for sports and cultural boycotts against Israel.

Most analysts suggest that while the shooting underscores increasing hostility and security concerns for Israelis abroad, it is unlikely to alter Israel’s core military strategy or policy in Gaza.