Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically wounded in a targeted ambush near the White House on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Initial reports of fatalities were later corrected; both soldiers survived despite their serious injuries. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was taken into custody and is also hospitalized after being shot during the incident.
The Shooting: What Happened
- The attack occurred around 2:15 p.m. local time near the Farragut West Metro station, approximately two blocks northwest of the White House.
- The two guards, part of a high-visibility federal patrol, were ambushed by the assailant, who fired at close range. One guard was struck first, and then the second. A third guard on site intervened, wounding the suspect and preventing further casualties.
- Both wounded soldiers were transported to separate hospitals in critical condition. Authorities described the incident as a “lone-gunman ambush.”
Suspect Background and Legal Fallout
- Rahmanullah Lakanwal reportedly entered the United States under the 2021 Afghan evacuation program and was granted asylum in April 2025. His application for a green card is still pending.
- In response, federal authorities have temporarily suspended immigration processing for Afghan nationals to review and strengthen security screening protocols.
- The attack has intensified debate over immigration policy and national security, prompting calls for stricter vetting and a comprehensive review of asylum programs.
Political and Security Response
- Former President Donald Trump condemned the attack as a “heinous assault” and ordered the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C.
- Vice President JD Vance called for prayers for the wounded soldiers and emphasized the need for stricter immigration controls.
- Federal agencies, including the FBI and local law enforcement, are investigating the attack. No official motive has been confirmed, and authorities describe the investigation as ongoing.
Broader Context: National Guard Deployment and Domestic Security
The shooting occurs amid controversy surrounding the federal deployment of over 2,000 National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., ordered earlier this year to bolster security. A recent federal court ruling questioned the legality of such domestic military deployments, though the ruling is currently under appeal. The ambush is likely to intensify discussions on the balance between public safety, civil liberties, and security measures.
Implications and What to Watch Next
- Security reassessment: Authorities are expected to implement stricter background checks for asylum seekers, particularly those admitted under large-scale evacuation programs.
- Policy debates: Lawmakers and security experts will continue scrutinizing the role of National Guard deployments in domestic law enforcement and the protocols for protecting federal installations.
- Ongoing investigation: The motive behind the attack remains under investigation, with authorities cautioning that further details may emerge in the coming days.
