President Donald Trump condemned the shooting of two West Virginia National Guard members near the White House, calling it “an act of evil” and “an act of terror.” Speaking from Florida, he announced heightened security screenings for Afghan arrivals who entered the U.S. under Operation Allies Welcome.
The attack occurred around 2:15 p.m. in Washington, D.C.’s Farragut Square, a busy area within walking distance of the White House. Police say a lone gunman approached three National Guard members before opening fire, critically wounding two.
According to officials, the third guardsman returned fire and injured the attacker, who was taken into custody and remains hospitalized. More than 2,200 Guard members are currently deployed in the capital, including personnel from D.C. and multiple states.
Authorities identified the suspect as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who arrived in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed his immigration history and said preliminary findings indicate he acted alone.
In a video statement, Trump vowed severe punishment for the attacker and ordered a full review of Afghan entrants from the 2021 resettlement wave. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services later announced a temporary pause on new Afghan immigration requests while screening procedures are reassessed.
Operation Allies Welcome was launched after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan to resettle tens of thousands who supported American missions or faced persecution. While praised for its humanitarian purpose, it has faced scrutiny over vetting protocols.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said an additional 500 National Guard troops will be deployed to Washington for the holiday weekend. Former Presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama condemned the shooting and offered prayers for the wounded soldiers.
Advocates urged against blaming the broader Afghan community. The tragedy has renewed debate over national security, immigration policy, and the challenge of balancing vigilance with fairness.