Israeli Ambassador to US Updates on Son's Critical Condition

Yechiel Leiter, Israel's Ambassador to the United States, shared a painful update on his son Neriah, who was critically injured in a terrorist attack in the Benjamin region approximately 10 days prior. Neriah remains connected to life support machines and is in mortal danger, though he has shown some positive signs, offering the family hope.

In a moving post ahead of the Sukkot holiday, Ambassador Leiter expressed profound gratitude for the prayers and support his family has received, stating they provide immense strength. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited them at the hospital, offering much-needed comfort and support.

Leiter reflected on the recent security events, linking them to an ideology that he believes justifies the murder of Jews and denies Israel's right to exist. He drew parallels between the October 7th attacks, a recent attack on another individual, an attempt on his second son's life, and a near-miss with a passenger plane, suggesting that until this ideology is defeated, all are dependent on life support, like his son.

He also spoke about Israeli resilience and the meaning of his son's name, Neriah, which means "God's lamp," chosen because he was born before the Sabbath reading of Parashat Behaalotecha, which discusses Aaron lighting the menorah. Leiter concluded by reiterating his plea for continued prayers for Neriah's recovery, hoping he can celebrate Sukkot with his wife and children next year.

Neriah was critically injured when a terrorist rammed his vehicle into him during a checkpoint near Route 443. The terrorist then exited the vehicle and attacked other soldiers, who neutralized him. Neriah was evacuated to Shaare Zedek Medical Center, where he underwent emergency brain surgery upon arrival.