In the United States, an alarming incident occurred on November 26, 2025, when two National Guard members, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, were shot near the Farragut West Metro station in Washington, D.C. The alleged shooter, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had entered the country in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, a program designed to resettle Afghan evacuees. Witnesses reported that Lakanwal shouted 'Allahu Akbar' during the ambush before engaging the Guardsmen, resulting in Beckstrom's death and Wolfe being critically injured. Lakanwal, who had worked with the U.S. government in Afghanistan, was charged with four counts, including first-degree murder. Attorney General Pam Bondi has stated that the Department of Justice intends to seek the death penalty for Lakanwal. Concerns regarding Lakanwal's mental health and behavior had reportedly been raised by community members months prior to the attack, highlighting failures in the vetting process associated with the Afghan evacuation program initiated after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The incident has reignited discussions around national security and the effectiveness of the Biden administration's vetting procedures for refugees. Critics, including FBI Director Kash Patel, have cited this shooting as evidence of significant oversights in the processes designed to ensure the safety of American citizens. As investigators continue to search for a motive behind Lakanwal's actions, the attack has raised questions about the ongoing implications for Afghan evacuees living in the U.S. In the aftermath of the attack, community leaders, government officials, and family members have called for justice and expressed their sorrow over the loss and the serious condition of Wolfe. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey emphasized the importance of justice and highlighted the emotional impact this tragedy has caused within the Guard and broader community, reinforcing the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for accountability in the wake of such violence.

The history of the National Guard deployment in Washington D.C. dates back to its origins in the early militia formations of the American colonies. The National Guard serves a unique dual role in the United States; it operates under the jurisdiction of both state and federal governments. Its role in Washington D.C. is particularly notable, as the capital has often been the focal point of civil unrest, national emergencies, and significant events that necessitate the mobilization of the Guard. Throughout history, the National Guard has been called upon during various crises, from civil disturbances during the Civil Rights Movement to responses to natural disasters and security threats following the events of September 11, 2001. These deployments often highlight the balance between maintaining public order and protecting citizens’ rights to assemble and express dissent. One of the most significant deployments of the National Guard occurred during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, particularly during the 1968 riots following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The Guard was mobilized to restore order in various cities, including Washington D.C., reflecting the challenges faced by local law enforcement and the need for support from military personnel. This deployment not only underscores the role of the Guard in domestic affairs but also raises questions regarding the militarization of law enforcement and the implications for community relations. In more recent history, the National Guard's presence in Washington D.C. has been prominently highlighted during events such as the inauguration of President Joe Biden in January 2021 and the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Following the storming of the Capitol, approximately 25,000 National Guard members were activated to ensure the safety and security of the area. This unprecedented mobilization illustrated the evolving nature of threats faced in the nation’s capital and the Guard's responsive capability in such critical situations. The extensive involvement of the National Guard during both protective duties and community engagement efforts illustrates the changing landscape of its role. Overall, the National Guard's history of deployment in Washington D.C. functions as a barometer for assessing wider national issues, including civil rights, security, and the balance of authority between federal and local powers. Its dual mission underscores the critical function the Guard serves in safeguarding democracy while also responding to urgent calls for assistance during times of crisis. As the nature of threats continues to evolve, the National Guard's operations will likely adapt, ensuring a continued presence in Washington D.C. as both a symbol of resilience and a means of support for local and national efforts.