Israelis Injured in New Orleans Terror Attack Were Reservists Vacationing After Battling Hamas, Hezbollah

According to Israeli consul, the two had been traveling the US to ‘clear their heads’ after long stints in the IDF.

By Ben Rappaport, United with Israel

Two of the victims of the New Orleans car-ramming terror attack on New Year’s Day were Israeli reserves soldiers vacationing after battling Hamas and Hezbollah for over a year, The New York Post reported Saturday.

Israel’s consul to the Southwest United States, Elad Shoshan told the Post that the two were “best friends” in their mid-20s, who had been traveling around the US to “clear their heads” after long stints in the IDF.

One suffered “critical” injuries, including head trauma requiring two “life-saving” surgeries, Shoshan said, adding that the victim will require further surgery for his limbs. The second man was intubated Friday as a precaution and is in “stable” condition after two surgeries for internal injuries.

New Orleans had been their planned second to last stop in a six week trip around the US before returning back to Israel.

Shoshan called it a “tragic irony” that the reservists had survived a year of fighting for Israel against terrorists, only to be injured in a terrorist attack while vacationing in the US.

“They left the terror of one country and never expected to be victims of it in another,” Shoshan said.

“They came here to relax, to travel. Now that’s interrupted in the most horrific way,” he added.

Shoshan said the severely injured Israeli had tried to communicate with him before his first surgery. “He pressed my hand,” he said. “He’s in severe pain all over his body.”

According to The New York Post, the second soldier, in an emotional moment, prayed for his friend’s recovery, reciting the Jewish “Shema” prayer.

The families of both soldiers, who have flown in to be with their loved ones, have been supported by the local Jewish community in New Orleans.

“I am truly inspired and proud of how the local Jewish community in New Orleans has come together in response to the recent tragedy,” Shoshan told JNS. “They have shown incredible support and kindness, offering help, resources and companionship to make sure that the victims and their families don’t feel alone during this tough time.”

“In moments of deep sorrow, the Jewish community truly stands together and cares for one another,” he added. “The consulate is in continuous communication with local and federal authorities, as well as the families of the victims, to ensure all necessary assistance is provided.”