Lebanese Ambassador Calls Israeli Counterpart to Express Solidarity After Attack

Lebanon's Ambassador to the United States, Randa Assi, contacted Israel's Ambassador to the U.S., Michael (Yechiel) Leiter, to express solidarity and condemn a recent vehicular attack on Route 443. The attack critically injured Ambassador Leiter's son, Neria.

The report, which emerged Sunday from Israeli news outlet Kan News citing Western diplomatic sources who spoke to a Hezbollah-affiliated Lebanese journalist, indicated the call was a gesture of support. The Israeli Embassy in Washington did not deny the report, stating they had no comment.

The conversation occurred against the backdrop of a prior acquaintance between the two ambassadors, who had met in Washington to foster complex relations between Israel and Lebanon. The Hezbollah-affiliated journalist reportedly framed the call as subservient on the part of the Lebanese ambassador rather than a humanitarian gesture.

Ambassador Leiter returned to Israel following the incident. His son, Neria Leiter, a reservist, remains hospitalized at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, where doctors are fighting for his life. Neria is the brother of Major (res.) Moshe Yedidya Leiter, who fell in combat in the Gaza Strip during the Swords of Iron War. Despite this profound family tragedy, Neria continued his reserve duty, serving hundreds of days on various fronts since October 7.

The family has requested the public pray for Neria Dov ben Chana's recovery. Ambassador Leiter stated, "I thank the IDF and the medical team at Shaare Zedek who are now fighting for the life of Neria Dov ben Chana and for the prayers of the people of Israel. I believe in the power of prayer and believe that when the people of Israel unite, miracles happen. Neria needs a miracle."