Former US President Barack Obama has condemned violence in the country in response to a shooting incident near the White House. Barack Obama expressed his thoughts and prayers for the service members who were shot in Washington, DC, and extended his sympathy to their families during this holiday season marked by tragic events.
The suspected shooter, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who arrived in the US in 2021, was involved in the incident. Current President Trump, who was in Florida for Thanksgiving, also commented on the attack, vowing severe consequences for the perpetrator.
Authorities, including Jeffrey Carroll, an executive assistant DC police chief, mentioned that the motive behind the shooting remains unknown. The two guards targeted in the incident are in critical condition at a local hospital, as confirmed by FBI director Kash Patel.
The shooting took place close to the White House and near a metro station. National Guard presence in the capital has sparked debates concerning the administration’s strategy in addressing crime issues. Videos circulating on social media captured the first responders providing emergency medical aid to the injured guards.
Recently, a federal judge ordered the withdrawal of National Guard troops from the capital, following an emergency order issued by Trump that had federalized the local police force and deployed National Guard units from various states. The guards have been involved in patrolling neighborhoods, railway stations, checkpoints, and assisting in other security-related activities.
The incident has reignited discussions about the role of the National Guard in maintaining public safety in Washington, DC.