Israeli Reservist Critically Injured in Terror Attack, Past Writings on Sacrifice Resurface

Neria Leiters, an Israeli reservist who was critically injured in a car-ramming attack on Route 443 on Wednesday, previously wrote movingly about his decision to return to reserve duty after his brother, Major (res.) Moshe Yedidya Leiters, fell in combat in Gaza. In his past writings, Neria described the deep emotional pain of his loss, stating, "Something in the heart truly tore, but I couldn't stand by while my friends were doing another round and another round." He concluded his thoughts with a sentence that now carries a chilling resonance: "Until next time. Because we have no other land."

Neria, a reservist around 30 years old and a resident of the Samaria region, was struck by the terrorist's vehicle and evacuated to Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, unconscious, sedated, and on a ventilator. He had been performing hundreds of days of reserve duty on various fronts since October 7th. The terrorist was neutralized at the scene by security forces.

His father, Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Leiters, shared a message requesting prayers for his son's recovery, "Neria Dov needs a miracle, the doctors are fighting for his life." He expressed faith in the power of prayer and unity, stating, "Terrorism aims to uproot the people of Israel from their land. They choose death, we choose life."

In his earlier writings, Neria also spoke of the immense privilege he felt in serving, despite the difficulties. He described the honor of being part of historic moments, alongside selfless individuals from diverse backgrounds who unite when needed to protect their home. He expressed a desire to return to being a better citizen, husband, and father after his service.