Boy Hospitalized After Attempting to Break Up Fight at Israeli Elementary School

A fifth-grade student in Rishon LeZion, identified as Liam, was hospitalized with an eye injury after intervening in a fight between other students during recess last Thursday. Liam, 11 and a half years old, was reportedly attacked by another student while trying to allow his classmates to continue playing soccer. His mother, Liran Didraniq, stated that the aggressor student had a history of violent behavior and had been transferred to the school due to severe issues, causing fear among students and staff.

Didraniq recounted receiving an urgent call from a teacher informing her that her son had been "blown up in the eye." Liam was taken to the emergency room, where his cuts were treated with adhesive strips. The injury prevented him from participating in a soccer tournament and he is now refusing to return to school, with his mother expressing distress that he was sent to an educational institution, not a "battlefield."

Following the incident, parents in Liam's grade initiated a school boycott and hung protest signs, which Didraniq claims were torn down by the aggressor student within an hour. She has filed a police complaint and contacted the municipality, which reportedly promised the aggressive student would be accompanied by a close aide. Didraniq expressed frustration, stating that despite a year of assurances that the issue was being handled, "nothing is happening in practice."

A court hearing involving the parents and school administration is scheduled for this Thursday. Didraniq is determined to ensure the aggressive student receives necessary treatment and that other children are protected. The police confirmed an investigation is underway, while the Ministry of Education stated the incident is being handled by the school administration with support from supervisory bodies and the local authority, involving disciplinary and educational measures, including separation of students and discussions with families.