Israeli Victims Among Wounded in New Orleans Attack

Thursday, 2 January 2025 | Two Israeli nationals remain hospitalized and on ventilators following a deadly ramming and shooting attack in New Orleans’ French Quarter on New Year’s Eve, Elad Shoshan, Israel's consul to the US Southwest and deputy consul general, told Ynetnews on Thursday.

One victim is stable and not in life-threatening condition, while the other is in moderate to serious condition. Both remain unable to communicate. "We hope to speak with them tomorrow," Shoshan said.

The attack, now being investigated as an act of terrorism by the FBI, has claimed the lives of 15 people and left over 30 others injured. The suspect, identified as Shamsud Din Jabbar, 42, reportedly drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street around 3:15 a.m., then opened fire on police before being fatally shot. Officials found an Islamic State flag in the vehicle, and investigators are examining possible ties to foreign terror groups.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as the truck plowed through revelers, followed by gunfire. Two officers were injured before police neutralized the attacker. Explosive devices were later found at the scene, prompting further investigation and detonation efforts.

Most victims were local residents celebrating New Year’s Eve, with the Sugar Bowl set to take place hours later. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry condemned the attack, and outgoing President Joe Biden offered federal assistance in a call with Mayor LaToya Cantrell.