Israeli Official Urges Government Action After Reservist's Critical Injury

Israel Gantz, head of the Binyamin Regional Council and chairman of the Yesha Council, visited Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem where reservist Neria Dov Leiter is hospitalized in serious condition following a terror attack on Route 443. Leiter, the son of Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Yehiel Leiter, was injured by a terrorist shooting at a checkpoint.

Leiter, a resident of the settlement of Eli in the Binyamin region, has been receiving intensive medical care. His family has requested prayers for his recovery, identifying him as Neria Dov ben Chana. Gantz stated he was with the family at the hospital as medical teams worked to stabilize Leiter's condition. Neria is one of two sons of Chani and Yehiel Leiter; his brother, Maj. (res.) Moshe Yedidya Leiter, was killed in combat in Gaza in November 2023.

Despite the family's loss, Neria Leiter has continued extensive reserve duty since October 7, serving hundreds of days on multiple fronts, according to his father. Gantz expressed solidarity with the Leiter family on behalf of the residents of Binyamin, emphasizing their prayers for Neria's recovery.

Turning to security and policy implications, Gantz reported a lengthy conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shortly before the premier's departure for the U.S. Gantz argued that a series of recent attacks in the Binyamin region necessitates a change in government policy. He called for additional security and political measures, including a declaration that an Arab state will not be established, increased Israeli control over open areas in Binyamin and the wider West Bank, and expanded operations against terror infrastructure.

Gantz further advocated for extensive security operations in villages from which attackers emerge, including searches for weapons. He urged the government and security establishment to act immediately, stating, "Now, before it's too late," emphasizing the need for a broader response to recent events. The family and their supporters remain at Shaare Zedek, continuing to pray for Neria's healing.