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

Neriah Laiter, a reserve soldier and son of Israel's Ambassador to the United States, has been identified as the critically injured victim of a car-ramming attack at the Makabim checkpoint near Highway 443. Laiter sustained a severe head injury and was evacuated to Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, unconscious, sedated, and on a respirator. The attack occurred when a terrorist drove his vehicle towards a police patrol car at the checkpoint, striking one of the officers. Security forces at the scene quickly neutralized the attacker.

The incident carries particular weight for the Laiter family, as another son, Major Moshe Yedidya Laiter, was killed in combat in northern Gaza during the recent war. Neriah Laiter continued his reserve duty after losing his older brother and has served hundreds of days since October 7th. The family has requested prayers for Neriah Dov ben Chana's full recovery.

Ambassador Yechiel Laiter is returning to Israel to be with his son and family. He expressed gratitude to the IDF and medical teams, stating, "Neriah needs a miracle. I believe in the power of prayer and that when the people of Israel unite, miracles happen." He also condemned Palestinian terrorism, asserting, "They choose death, we choose life!"

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was briefed on the victim's identity and spoke with Ambassador Laiter, offering support. Netanyahu is expected to address the attack in his upcoming UN address. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also offered prayers for Laiter's recovery and praised the soldiers who eliminated the terrorist, vowing to prevent terrorism.

Initial investigations suggest the terrorist acted alone, originating from the village of Beit Ur al-Tahta. He surprised guards at the checkpoint before exiting his vehicle and attacking soldiers, who then engaged and killed him. The Central Command has warned of potential copycat attacks, noting external efforts by Hamas to instigate terror in the West Bank. The current period is characterized by high tensions due to holidays, harvest season, and upcoming elections, leading to increased friction between Israelis and Palestinians. The IDF has restructured its command in the region to two divisions instead of one as a precautionary measure.