A shooting near the White House on Wednesday, which left two members of the West Virginia National Guard in critical condition, has led to the identification of the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national. President Donald Trump quickly characterized the event as an “act of terror.” The injured National Guard members were in Washington, D.C., when the shooting occurred, situated two blocks northwest of the White House and close to a Metro station. The reason for the attack remains under investigation.
Video evidence reviewed by authorities shows the suspect suddenly appearing and opening fire on the troops. The 29-year-old suspect was shot and restrained by other Guard members on site. Reports from law enforcement officials suggest his injuries are not critical.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal was admitted to the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a program designed to evacuate and resettle Afghans who had aided U.S. efforts in their home country. This program successfully brought tens of thousands of Afghans to the U.S., many of whom had vital roles as interpreters and support staff. According to a family relation, Lakanwal had a decade-long career in the Afghan army, including a period working with U.S. Special Forces at a Kandahar base, before his arrival in the United States in September 2021.
The shooting has amplified political opposition to the vetting process for Afghan immigrants. President Trump publicly criticized the administration’s role in facilitating the suspect’s entry. The Operation Allies Welcome program has previously been scrutinized for its vetting procedures, though proponents emphasize its necessity for protecting vulnerable individuals. Efforts are underway to thoroughly investigate Lakanwal’s background, including his previous residence in Washington state, to understand the motive for this violent act.