Son of Israeli Ambassador to US Critically Injured in West Bank Terror Attack

Neriah Leiter, son of Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Michael Leiter, was critically injured on Wednesday in a car-ramming attack at the Maccabim checkpoint on Route 443. Leiter, a reservist soldier, was evacuated to Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem unconscious and suffering from severe head trauma. He underwent emergency surgery, and his life remains in danger, according to hospital officials.

The attacker was killed by Israeli forces at the scene. This incident follows a personal tragedy for Ambassador Leiter, who lost his elder son, Major Moshe Yehudiah Leiter, during combat in Gaza on November 10, 2023. Despite this loss, Neriah Leiter continued his reserve duty on various fronts since October 7th.

Ambassador Leiter expressed gratitude to the IDF and medical teams, emphasizing his belief in prayer and miracles, stating, "Neriah needs a miracle." He also condemned Palestinian terrorism, asserting, "They choose death, we choose life."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Leiter at the hospital before departing for the UN. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant offered prayers for Neriah's recovery and praised the soldiers who neutralized the attacker, vowing to prevent terrorism.

The article also details another recent attack where Natanel Shkaron, a father of six, was killed by gunfire near the settlement of Ali Zahav. The terrorist was apprehended near Ramallah after a manhunt. Shkaron was buried on the evening of the holiday, with his widow eulogizing his bravery in protecting their son.