Magen David Sephardic Congregation in Rockville, Md., had the honor of hosting the Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter last weekend as part of its Celebration of Israel Shabbaton. He addressed the diverse community during the Friday-night Shabbat dinner, Saturday Shabbat services and at Seudah Shlishit, on Saturday afternoon, reaffirming the enduring bond between the State of Israel and Jewish communities worldwide.
Rabbi Ari Soussan, in his opening address at the shabbaton, drew poignant historical parallels to events today, emphasizing how Hamas’s genocidal attack on Oct. 7 has united world Jewry, much like Haman’s actions in Babylon united the Jews in the time of Queen Esther. Soussan further underscored the invisible bonds that connect us to our brothers and sisters in Israel, reminding us that their struggles, sorrows and triumphs are deeply intertwined with our own.
Leiter emphasized the critical role of the Jewish community in combating efforts to delegitimize Israel and rising antisemitism, urging us to stand united in defending shared values and historical truths. During Shabbat dinner, he reflected on the immense sacrifices made by Israeli society in the wake of the Oct. 7 massacre and the ongoing war. He inspired us to uphold moral clarity and speak out against unjust slander targeting Israel.
The ambassador also spoke about Israel’s resilience, noting its unique status as the only country in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) with a fertility rate above replacement level—a testament to its unwavering belief in the future.
He also shared a deeply personal story over Shabbat about the loss of his son, Maj. (res.) Moshe Yedidyah Leiter, 39, who was killed along with three other reservists while inspecting a booby-trapped tunnel entrance in Gaza’s Beit Hanoun area. Two other soldiers on his team were gravely injured and lost their limbs. Despite the heartbreak, the ambassador spoke about how God transformed this tragedy into a source of greater good, highlighting unity and resilience. His message inspired profound pride in our Jewish identity and empowered us to stand against antisemitism and advocate for Israel with unwavering courage and hope.
Leiter spoke on “The Wisdom of the Heart” and “Plan B,” urging people to look beyond logic and embrace true wisdom found in compassion, connection and authenticity. Using the Ark of the Covenant, which held both the broken and new tablets, as a symbol, Leiter highlighted the power of vulnerability and the courage to trust in God’s greater plan. He reminded those in attendance that life’s unpredictability offers opportunities to align with God’s divine Plan B, teaching resilience, trust and the depth of God’s love.
Leiter expressed how deeply moved he was by the vibrant and welcoming Magen David community, where tradition and faith inspire unity and purpose. Bernard Suissa, vice president of the synagogue, summed it up perfectly: “Ambassador Leiter delivered a compelling message of unity and pride, urging us to reflect on our identity and boldly advocate for Israel by sharing, unapologetically, its truth.”
The ambassador’s talks were a master class in understanding the vibrancy and resilience of Israel—a democratic, high-tech nation—and the profound costs of ensuring its security. As synagogue president Elliot Totah noted, Leiter fully immersed himself in the community, sharing a powerful message of unity and strength. His eloquence and dedication left an indelible mark, and the Jewish people are proud to have such a tireless advocate for Israel in Washington. As challenges grow, Leiter’s messages remind us of the importance of staying engaged and active as a community.
