Rahmanullah Lakanwal pleads not guilty in US National Guard shooting

Al JazeeraTuesday, December 2, 2025 at 7:57:18 PM
  • Rahmanullah Lakanwal has pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from a shooting incident that occurred near the White House in Washington, D.C., on November 26, 2025, which resulted in the death of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and critically injured another Guardsman, Andrew Wolfe. The judge has ordered Lakanwal to be held without bond following the incident that caused widespread panic in the area.
  • This development is significant as it raises serious concerns about the safety of military personnel in urban settings, particularly in the capital, where tensions have been heightened due to recent political events and security threats. The case has drawn attention to the implications of immigration policies and the vetting of individuals entering the U.S.
  • The shooting incident has sparked a broader debate regarding the status of Afghan nationals in the U.S., especially those who entered under resettlement programs. It has led to immediate repercussions, including a suspension of immigration requests for Afghans, highlighting the ongoing challenges and scrutiny faced by refugees and the potential impact on U.S. foreign policy and national security.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
What we know about the DC shooting suspect’s shadowy Afghan CIA unit?
NegativeWorld Affairs
An Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has been identified as the suspect in a shooting incident that critically injured two members of the West Virginia National Guard near the White House in Washington, D.C. Lakanwal, a veteran of the CIA's Zero Units, entered the U.S. in September 2021 and has pleaded not guilty to the charges stemming from the November 26, 2025, attack.
Congo and Rwanda to sign symbolic peace deal in Washington as fighting rages
NegativeWorld Affairs
A U.S.-brokered peace deal between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) and Rwanda is set to be signed in Washington, yet ongoing violence in the region casts doubt on its effectiveness. Despite the symbolic nature of the agreement, fighting continues to escalate, particularly in eastern DR Congo, where ethnic conflicts have led to significant casualties and displacement.
In Colombia, anger and disbelief at Trump threats of U.S. strikes
NegativeWorld Affairs
President Trump has issued threats of U.S. military strikes against Colombia, a move that has sparked anger and disbelief in the country, particularly as it comes amid deteriorating diplomatic relations that were once celebrated during the 200th anniversary of ties with Washington.
Amid missiles and diplomacy, Russia is exploiting western divisions over Ukraine
NegativeWorld Affairs
As Russia escalates military pressure and diplomatic efforts, European leaders are increasingly divided from Washington regarding the approach to achieving peace in Ukraine. Recent warnings from President Putin indicate a readiness for conflict, complicating the already tense situation.
US confirms two strikes ordered on boat
NegativeWorld Affairs
The U.S. military has confirmed two strikes on a boat in the Caribbean, part of a broader campaign against alleged drug trafficking linked to Venezuela. This follows a significant naval buildup in the region, with at least 19 suspected drug vessels targeted since September. The White House has defended the actions taken by a U.S. admiral, despite reports suggesting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered lethal measures against all individuals on board.