MK Criticized for Political Exploitation of Teen's Tragic Death

A 17-year-old Israeli boy, Amihai Etia, was killed in a hit-and-run incident in Hadera on Friday morning while attending a prayer event. Etia, a student from the Itamar settlement and a counselor, was reportedly struck by a vehicle driven by an Arab resident of Kafr Manda, who was reversing at high speed. The incident occurred during an apparent confrontation at the "Mul Ha'hof Village" complex, though the Samaria Regional Council emphasized that Etia was not involved in any altercation.

Hours after the fatal incident, MK Adi Azulay of the Yesh Atid party posted on social media, "On Thursday they vow, on Friday they stab, and on Shabbat they guard. The days of the Netanyahu-Ben Gvir government." This post drew immediate criticism for allegedly exploiting the tragedy for political gain before the victim's family had even buried him.

Etia was in Hadera for a "Slichot" (penitential prayers) event organized by the "Hetzim" Yeshiva in cooperation with the Hadera Municipality. He was critically injured and later pronounced dead at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center. The driver of the vehicle, who fled the scene, is under investigation. The full circumstances of the incident are still being examined by authorities.

The Samaria Regional Council expressed deep sorrow over Etia's death, describing him as a "beloved, value-driven, and vibrant youth" who had his whole life ahead of him. He is survived by his parents and five siblings, including a twin brother. The council also noted that the investigation into the incident's circumstances is ongoing and that the family has not yet held the funeral.