{
  "id": 9688024,
  "title": "Pray for Leiter: The importance of supporting soldiers who protect Israeli life - editorial",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/pray-for-leiter-the-importance-of-supporting-soldiers-who-protect",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-25T03:32:40.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Jerusalem Post",
    "slug": "jerusalem-post",
    "url": "https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-909636"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On Wednesday, IDF reservist Neria Leiter sustained serious injuries when a Palestinian attacker deliberately rammed his vehicle into him at a checkpoint near Beit Horon on Route 443. Following multiple rounds of surgery at Jerusalem's Shaare Zedek Medical Center, doctors reported that Neria's condition had stabilized, though his life remained at risk. His family asked the public to pray for Neria Dov ben Chana. His father, Israel's ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, had traveled from New York to be present at the hospital. On Thursday, Yechiel shared his thoughts on a previous tragic loss in November 2023 when his eldest son, Maj. (res.) Moshe Yedidya Leiter, was killed while fighting in Gaza. In his statement to reporters, Yechiel emphasized that while Neria's life was still in grave danger, he could gather with his family at his bedside to pray together, asking others to join them in their quest to save him.\n\nThe Leiter family represents a common theme amongst Israeli families who have lost sons and sons-in-law to the conflict. Yechiel made a conscious decision at the age of 18 to relocate to Israel, and his children followed suit, each making their own choices about service. From the youngest son serving in a support role to another son living with Down syndrome, each family member carries their own life beyond the narrative of service. Yechiel's diary entry highlighted the emotional toll of his son's death and his personal opinions on the management of the ongoing conflict. Despite disagreements with the decisions made, the father still chose to remain in reserve duty, acknowledging that his role was in his control.\n\nThe Israeli reservists play an integral part in defending their country, carrying an enormous weight upon their shoulders. Israel has demanded reservists across multiple fronts since the October 7 massacre, with families enduring repeated departures, work interruptions, and the constant fear that accompanies each call. The Leiter family's name has gained recognition due to Yechiel's role as Israel's ambassador to Washington. However, this is not unique to the Leiters; countless other families have endured comparable burdens and deserve recognition during their service and beyond.\n\nYechiel expressed his belief in prayer and national unity as a means to bring about miracles, stating that his family chooses life, while the enemy chooses death. He emphasized that while the enemy may fight for death, the Israeli people choose life. For those who follow the story of Neria Leiter, it is crucial to not only pray for his recovery but also to extend support to families and employers long after the headlines have faded. This support includes being receptive to reservists' criticisms, even when they continue to serve, and ensuring that their demands for defense are addressed fairly.",
  "summary": "Neria can disagree with those making the decisions and still answer the call, but Israel shouldn't mistake that resolve for an inexhaustible supply of time, health, or courage.",
  "key_points": [
    "IDF reservist Neria Leiter injured in checkpoint attack near Beit Horon.",
    "Neria's condition stabilized, but life remains at risk after multiple surgeries.",
    "Family requests public prayers and support for Neria and other reservists."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The plight of the Leiter family highlights the unseen costs of Israeli reservists' service, underscoring the need for sustained support from the public and leaders beyond the immediate crisis.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Jerusalem Post",
        "title": "IDF: Two soldiers killed by Israeli military drone exploding within Gaza outpost during operation",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/idf-two-soldiers-killed-by-israeli-military-drone-exploding-within",
        "published": "2026-09-25T05:32:40.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}