Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Milgrim, 26, were a young couple working at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., and just days away from getting engaged. Yaron had already purchased a ring and was planning to propose during a trip to Jerusalem next week.

But on a recent night, their lives were cut short in a senseless act of violence. The couple was fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum shortly after attending a diplomatic event. The alleged shooter, Elias Rodriguez, reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” during his arrest.

Both Yaron and Sarah were respected members of the Israeli diplomatic community in D.C. Yaron worked in diplomacy, while Sarah focused on public outreach. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through the embassy and the broader Jewish diplomatic network.

In a statement, the Israeli Embassy confirmed their identities, describing the pair as “dedicated, compassionate, and committed to peace.” One colleague expressed the heartbreak poignantly:

“Instead of walking you down the aisle, we are walking with you to your graves.”

Yaron, known for his support of interfaith dialogue and the Abraham Accords, had moved to Washington in 2022. Sarah had only recently joined the embassy in late 2023, bringing with her experience from Tech2Peace, a nonprofit that promotes dialogue between young Israelis and Palestinians. Her former colleagues described her as a bridge-builder—empathetic, idealistic, and devoted to unity.

The couple had recently met Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who called them “flowers of our people” — young leaders whose lives were filled with promise and purpose.

Israeli officials later confirmed what had already made this tragedy even more painful: Yaron had planned to propose in the coming days. What was meant to be a moment of love and celebration has become a symbol of deep loss.