Israeli Ambassador to US Shares Update on Son's Critical Condition After Terror Attack

Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Michael (Yechiel) Leiter, provided an update on his son Neriah's critical condition following a terrorist attack at the Makabim checkpoint last week. Leiter stated that his son's life remains in the balance, but expressed hope due to some encouraging signs. Neriah, a reservist in his 30s, was critically injured and left unconscious after being run over by a terrorist who was subsequently neutralized by security forces. He was evacuated to Shaare Zedek Medical Center, where he underwent emergency surgery for a severe head injury. Hospital officials confirmed that his life is still in danger.

Leiter drew a distinction between his current experience and the loss of his elder son, Major Moshe Yedidya Leiter, who was killed in combat in Gaza on November 10, 2023. "He died immediately. There was no possibility of bringing him to the hospital... We didn't have the opportunity to gather around his bed, to say Psalms and rally the people of Israel to pray for his recovery," Leiter explained, contrasting it with the current situation where Neriah is receiving intensive medical care.

He described Neriah as his second son and Moshe's best friend, noting that Neriah has been leading the family since Moshe's death. "We are full of hope that we will get through this time and Neriah will return to us healthy and whole," he said. The ambassador also requested that prayers for Neriah include all victims of terror, emphasizing that Neriah and his comrades are heroes fighting for the future of civilization.

Leiter received the news in New York shortly after an interview discussing violence in the West Bank, which he characterized as Palestinian violence aimed at expelling Jews from the land. He stated that while there might be exceptions, the core conflict is about the Jewish right to live in the land. Neriah Leiter had continued his reserve duty after losing his brother and had served hundreds of days on various fronts since October 7.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Neriah at Shaare Zedek Medical Center before departing for the UN. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also sent his prayers and support to the Leiter family, praising the soldiers who neutralized the terrorist and reaffirming his trust in the IDF and security forces.