Israeli Ambassador to US Shares Personal Reflections from Son's Hospital Bed

Israeli Ambassador to the US, Dr. Yechiel Leiter, has shared a deeply personal message from his son Neriah's hospital bedside, as the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah began. Neriah is in critical condition, connected to life support machines after being severely injured in a vehicular attack near the Makabim checkpoint. Leiter, who rushed to his son's side after Neriah's critical injury, also lost another son in a previous conflict. He expressed gratitude for the widespread prayers for Neriah's recovery, stating that the prayers have given his family immense strength. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the family in the hospital, offering comfort and support. Leiter drew a connection between the October 7th attacks, which occurred on Simchat Torah three years prior, and the recent events, viewing them as stemming from an ideology that seeks to harm Jews and deny Israel's existence. He emphasized the concept of Israeli resilience, noting that "people don't understand Israeli resilience." Reflecting on his son's name, Neriah, meaning "God's lamp," Leiter discussed the ongoing duty to illuminate, comparing it to the eternal light of the menorah. He quoted author Mark Twain on the enduring nature of the Jewish people amidst the rise and fall of empires, posing Twain's question about the secret to Jewish eternity. Leiter concluded by reiterating his plea for continued prayers for Neriah's recovery, expressing hope that next Simchat Torah, his son will be able to celebrate with his wife and children.