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FIRST ON FOX – Republican attorneys general representing at least 27 states are calling for a collaborative approach with the FBI and the Department of Justice to combat the alarming rise of antisemitic domestic terrorism across the United States.
In a letter obtained by Fox News Digital, the attorneys general outlined their concerns regarding escalating antisemitic violence and expressed the need for a coordinated “game plan” with federal law enforcement agencies. This letter was addressed to FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi, seeking assistance in eradicating antisemitic domestic terrorism.
Led by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, the letter emphasizes, “We hope to meet with you personally to discuss ways that the states can support the important work of the FBI and collaborate with the Department of Justice to ensure accountability for those committing these horrendous acts.”
The urgency behind this correspondence stems from the recent surge of antisemitic incidents, particularly after the devastating Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. The state attorneys general articulated their concerns, stating, “Like you, we were horrified by the Hamas terrorist attacks against the people of Israel on October 7, and we are deeply troubled by the increase in antisemitism that has unfolded since that tragic day.” They pointed out that domestic terrorists appear more emboldened to perpetrate horrific acts against Jews and supporters of Israel in the aftermath of these events.
The letter draws attention to a specific incident that involved the tragic shooting of two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C. on May 21. The victims, 30-year-old Yaron Lischinsky and 26-year-old Sarah Milgrim, were attacked outside the Lillian & Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum while leaving an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee. Both victims were reportedly engaged to be married.
Details surrounding the attack reveal that the alleged shooter, 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, shouted, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza” when apprehended by authorities. This incident has underscored the persistent and growing threat of antisemitism in the U.S. The attorneys general, alongside their counterparts from various states, expressed that such violence serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced in combating hate.
They also referenced another incident involving Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an illegal immigrant from Egypt, who allegedly set victims on fire in Boulder, Colorado during a peaceful rally advocating for Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza on June 1. Witnesses reported hearing Soliman shout, “Free Palestine” and other anti-Israel slogans during the incident, where the victims ranged in age from 52 to 88, including a Holocaust survivor.
In their letter, the attorneys general commended the FBI for its swift action in investigating these violent acts of antisemitic domestic terrorism. They emphasized that violence and incitement of such actions have also intensified on college campuses, where many Jewish students feel unsafe due to rising hostility.
Within their correspondence, the attorneys general highlighted the FBI and the DOJ’s establishment of the “Joint Task Force October 7” as a positive step toward addressing the growing antisemitism and hate-inspired criminal activities.
President Donald Trump had previously signed an executive order aimed at vigorously combating antisemitism and ensuring that perpetrators of antisemitic harassment and violence are held accountable through all available legal means.
Furthermore, the letter reminds recipients that Trump had directed federal agencies to enhance cooperative efforts with state and local law enforcement, aiming to maximize the utilization of federal resources and data-sharing concerning crime across jurisdictions. This directive reinforces the notion that preparedness to tackle such issues lies primarily at the state and local levels, bolstered by efficient federal support.
The attorneys general noted, “As the chief legal officers of our states, we witness firsthand how effective investigative tools can aid in preventing and prosecuting crime. We seek collaboration with the FBI and the Department of Justice to be part of the solution in addressing the growing wave of antisemitic domestic terrorism. That is why we write to encourage further cooperation between federal law enforcement and the states, and to discuss how such a partnership can take shape.”
In their pursuit of effective strategies, they urged the sharing of tips and intelligence amassed by the FBI with state and local law enforcement to disrupt domestic terrorism before it escalates. They acknowledged the FBI’s reputation for investigative excellence and expressed appreciation for its current efforts in disseminating threat intelligence.
Moreover, the attorneys general stressed that enhancing collaboration among law enforcement agencies at all levels to share intelligence on antisemitic threats could significantly help mitigate the rise of domestic terrorism.
The attorneys general concluded their letter with an invitation for a meeting in the near future, stating, “We would welcome the opportunity to discuss a potential partnership with the FBI and the Department of Justice. Together, we can develop a robust strategy to combat antisemitic domestic terrorism.”
This collective initiative by state attorneys general marks a critical step in addressing and countering the rise of antisemitism and ensuring safety for all communities across the nation.
