IDF Reservist Injured in Terror Attack Visits Site of Friend's Injury

Ophir Anghelsman, an Israeli military reservist who lost a leg in a car-ramming attack in the southern Hebron Hills a year and a half ago, visited the Bel checkpoint where his childhood friend, Neriah Laiter, was recently injured. Anghelsman, who is still undergoing rehabilitation after his own severe injuries, spoke to Channel 7 about the emotional impact of hearing about Laiter's attack, which brought back memories of his own experience.

Laiter, the son of Israel's ambassador to the United States, was wounded in a car-ramming attack at the same checkpoint. Anghelsman visited the site during the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday to offer support to the soldiers stationed there, pray for his friend's recovery, and call for a change in security policy in the West Bank.

"We need to go on the offensive," Anghelsman stated, rejecting the notion that lone-wolf attacks are unavoidable. He emphasized that Israel should not just defend itself but take initiative. He urged the defense establishment, the Prime Minister, and the Defense Minister to "wage war" against terrorists in the West Bank, similar to how the IDF operates in Gaza and Lebanon.

Anghelsman noted a perceived gap between the motivation of soldiers on the ground and the directives they receive from higher command, recalling his own desire for proactive operations during his service. He also highlighted the ongoing psychological toll of such attacks, emphasizing the need for mental as well as physical recovery for wounded soldiers.

Despite his own continuing rehabilitation, including two surgeries in the past six months aimed at improving his mobility, Anghelsman felt compelled to visit the checkpoint. He sees his visit not only as a gesture to Laiter but as a platform to advocate for a more aggressive security approach, asserting, "We are the homeowners here. This is our home."