Former US President Barack Obama condemned the recent violence near the White House, emphasizing that such acts have no place in the United States. In a social media post, Obama, along with his wife Michelle, expressed their prayers for the injured service members and extended their support to the affected families during the holiday season.
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 US President Trump, who was in Florida for Thanksgiving, also addressed the attack on social media, vowing severe consequences for the perpetrator.
Authorities are investigating the shooting, with no clear motive established so far. The two guards targeted in the incident are in critical condition in the hospital. The shooting took place near the White House, where nearby troops intervened and subdued the gunman.
The presence of the National Guard in the nation’s capital has sparked public debate, particularly regarding the use of military forces to address security concerns. Emergency orders and deployments have been ongoing, with recent developments extending the stay of Guard members in Washington, DC.
Efforts to regulate the deployment of Guard members have faced legal challenges, with court orders affecting their activities. Despite the controversy, Guard members have been actively involved in various security tasks within the city, showcasing their versatility and commitment to public safety.