Mother of Israeli Soldier Facing Charges After Heroic Attack Response Speaks Out
Gila Frigeh, mother of Aviaad Frigeh, shares her pain and frustration over the indictment against her son, who intervened heroically during a deadly shooting attack at a Jerusalem bus stop more than three years ago. Aviaad confronted two terrorists during their attack, an act that tragically ended with the death of civilian Yuval Kastelman. Since then, the Frigeh family has been embroiled in a prolonged legal battle.
In an interview with Channel 7's podcast, Gila describes the ordeal as "impossible," emphasizing that her son acted exactly as a soldier should, risking his life to stop the terrorists. She explains that Aviaad had just finished a short break from reserve duty in Gaza and was about to return to supply convoys when he heard gunfire and responded immediately. She expresses deep disappointment with the military and legal system, feeling they have turned their backs on him.
Gila also acknowledges the profound grief of the Kastelman family, calling the event tragic for both sides and expressing hope for reconciliation. She recounts the trauma of Aviaad’s arrest shortly after the attack, including being handcuffed and publicly displayed in prison garb, which she felt humiliated a soldier who acted in good faith.
She criticizes the leaks of investigation materials to the media, which she believes compromised the fairness of the process and influenced witnesses. Gila highlights that early in the attack, Yuval Kastelman was injured and unable to shout, leading witnesses to mistakenly perceive him as a threat.
A year-long mediation process nearly reached a resolution but was abruptly halted after changes in the military prosecution, forcing the case back to trial. Despite the challenges, public support has been strong, with many Israelis showing solidarity with Aviaad in court and on the streets.
Gila warns that the case sends a chilling message to soldiers, potentially causing hesitation in critical moments. She urges parents to pray not only for their children’s physical and mental safety in the army but also protection from unjust treatment by the system. She remains hopeful that justice will ultimately prevail.
