FJMC Statement on the Murder of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrimin Washington, DC 

The Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs (FJMC) mourns the horrific and senseless murder of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, two young aides from the Israeli Embassy outside an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. According to reports, the victims were not only dedicated public servants — they were also a young couple, deeply in love, and on the verge of becoming engaged. Their futures, filled with promise and purpose, were stolen in an instant.

We extend our deepest condolences to their families, their colleagues, and all who knew and loved them. We grieve as a Jewish community and as fellow human beings — devastated by the loss of two lives taken too soon.

We are especially horrified that the assailants reportedly shouted “Free Palestine!” as they carried out this attack. Let us be clear: no cause, no matter how deeply felt, can ever justify murder. There is a vital difference between advocating for a people’s dignity and committing acts of terror in their name. This was not a cry for freedom — it was an act of hatred.

At the same time, we call on our community not to let this grief curdle into vengeance. The Jewish people are taught: lo tirtzach — do not murder (Exodus 20:13); tzedek, tzedek tirdof — justice, justice shall you pursue (Deuteronomy 16:20); and b’tzelem Elohim — every human being is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). We must respond to this moment not with fury, but with faithful resolve to uphold life, to affirm our shared humanity, and to reject hatred in all its forms.

We grieve. And in our grief, we pray. We pray for the safe return of the hostages still held in Gaza. We pray for peace and security for all people around the world. We pray for a world in which antisemitism and hatred of every kind is eradicated, our differences do not lead to violence, and where Jewish spaces — in Israel, in America, and around the world — are never targets of terror.

Now is the time for courage and compassion. May the memory of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim — and their love for one another — be a blessing. And may we honor them not with more violence, but with deeper commitment to justice, peace, and the enduring hope that life can triumph over death.

In brotherhood,
The Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs