Bereaved Mother Sworn In as Judge in Jerusalem

Ingrid Har-Even, an attorney and bereaved mother, was sworn in as a judge in the Jerusalem Family Court last week, nearly three years after her son, Major Shila Har-Even, fell in battle on October 7th. The emotional ceremony took place at the President's Residence, with Supreme Court President Isaac Amit acknowledging the family's grief during the significant occasion. Har-Even, a resident of Anatot in the Benjamin region, brings nearly 40 years of legal experience to the bench.

Major Shila Har-Even was killed leading his soldiers in a fierce battle against hundreds of terrorists who infiltrated the Nachal Oz area. For hours, he and his troops fought, eliminating dozens of terrorists and defending the Nachal Oz outpost and Kibbutz Sa'ad. Despite being wounded, he refused evacuation, continuing to command and fight until his death. He was posthumously promoted to Major and recommended for the Medal of Valor for his exceptional leadership and courage.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, the head of the Benjamin Regional Council and Chairman of the Yesha Council, Yisrael Gantz, called to congratulate Judge Har-Even. Gantz expressed deep admiration for her professional and personal journey, stating she is a source of immense pride for the Benjamin region. He remarked that despite her "unfathomable grief" over her son's death, she is choosing to move forward and assume one of the most influential roles in the Israeli justice system, guided by her son's legacy.