National Guard Shooting Near White House Sparks Security and Immigration Debate
Published 27 November 2025
Highlights
- Two National Guard members were shot near the White House; one has died, and the other remains in critical condition.
- The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, is in custody and faces multiple charges, including assault with intent to kill.
- President Trump announced the deployment of 500 additional troops to Washington DC following the incident.
- The suspect entered the US under Operation Allies Welcome, a program for Afghan immigrants post-US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
- The shooting has sparked debate over the presence of federal troops in Washington DC and the implications of US immigration policies.
In a shocking incident just blocks from the White House, two National Guard members were shot on Wednesday afternoon, leading to heightened security measures and a renewed debate over US immigration policies. The attack, which occurred near Farragut Square in Washington DC, resulted in the death of one guard member, while the other remains in critical condition.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
The shooting unfolded around 2:00 PM EST, when the suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, allegedly ambushed the guards during their patrol. Metropolitan Police Assistant Chief Jeff Carroll described the attack as a targeted ambush. The rapid response from law enforcement, including Secret Service personnel, led to the suspect's apprehension, though not without incident, as Lakanwal was shot four times during the arrest.
Suspect's Background and Legal Proceedings
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, entered the United States in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, a program designed to assist Afghans following the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan. Lakanwal, who had ties with US forces and the CIA in Afghanistan, was granted asylum earlier this year. He now faces serious charges, including three counts of assault with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
Political Reactions and Security Measures
In response to the attack, President Donald Trump announced the deployment of an additional 500 troops to Washington DC, citing the need for increased security. This decision has sparked controversy, with critics like Gary Goodweather, a Democratic mayoral candidate, arguing that the presence of federal troops could exacerbate tensions. Goodweather, a former National Guard captain, expressed concern over the militarization of the capital, suggesting it sends the wrong message to residents.
Immigration Policy Under Scrutiny
The suspect's connection to Afghanistan has reignited discussions on US immigration policies, particularly those concerning Afghan nationals. President Trump has called for a re-evaluation of all Afghan immigrants who entered the country under President Biden, temporarily halting immigration requests from Afghanistan. This move has drawn criticism from various quarters, highlighting the complex interplay between national security and immigration.
What this might mean
The shooting near the White House has significant implications for both security and immigration policies in the United States. The deployment of additional troops may lead to increased tensions in Washington DC, potentially affecting public sentiment and political dynamics. Furthermore, the scrutiny of Afghan immigrants could result in policy shifts that impact thousands of individuals who sought refuge in the US following the withdrawal from Afghanistan. As the legal proceedings against Rahmanullah Lakanwal unfold, the case may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions on the balance between national security and humanitarian obligations.
