Former US President Barack Obama condemned violence in America after a shooting near the White House. Obama expressed his prayers for the service members injured in Washington, DC, sending support to their families during the holiday season.

The suspected shooter, identified as Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old who arrived in the US in 2021, triggered Obama’s statement. Current President Trump, from Florida for Thanksgiving, also addressed the attack, vowing severe consequences for the perpetrator.

Trump praised the National Guard, military, and law enforcement, showing solidarity with them. Investigations into the motive behind the shooting remain ongoing, as officials disclosed that the gunman opened fire on the guards without warning.

The two guards, critically injured in the shooting, are receiving medical treatment. The incident occurred close to the White House, and responding troops subdued the shooter swiftly. The National Guard’s presence in the capital has sparked debate on the administration’s approach to crime control.

Videos on social media captured first responders assisting the injured guards. The National Guard deployment extension has been a recent development, with Trump’s emergency order mobilizing troops from multiple states. A federal judge’s intervention prompted discussions on the continued presence of the Guard in the capital.