Two National Guard Soldiers Shot Near White House in Targeted Attack

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): A major security incident took place near the White House in Washington, D.C., where two National Guard soldiers were shot in what officials are calling a “targeted attack.” The shooting happened just a few blocks from the White House, causing an immediate security lockdown in the area.

According to Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, both soldiers were on routine duty when a gunman approached and opened fire. Emergency services rushed the injured soldiers to a nearby hospital, where both are currently being treated.

Police quickly responded and managed to detain the attacker after a brief exchange of gunfire. The suspect was injured during the confrontation and is now in custody. Early investigations suggest the shooter acted alone, but his motives are still under examination.

Authorities have identified the attacker as a 29-year-old Afghan national who had entered the U.S. under an earlier resettlement program. His background and activities over the past few years are now being closely reviewed by federal agencies.

U.S. President Donald Trump strongly condemned the attack, calling it “an act of violence against those who protect our nation.” He warned that anyone targeting American security forces would “pay a very heavy price.”

Following the incident, U.S. immigration authorities have paused processing of certain Afghan immigration and asylum applications until further review. Security has been tightened around the White House and nearby federal buildings as investigations continue.

Officials are also reviewing protocols related to the deployment of National Guard troops in major cities — a move that had already been a subject of political debate.