By COLlive reporter
The Jewish community of Bozeman, Montana, had the honor of welcoming Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Yechiel “Michael” Leiter, for Shabbos Nachamu at Chabad Lubavitch of Montana, led by Rabbi Chaim and Chavie Bruk.
Ambassador Leiter, described by Rabbi Bruk as a “genuine mentsch, wise Torah scholar, and devoted father,” spent the Shabbos engaging with the community in heartfelt conversation and spirited discussion.
Leiter was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, was an Israeli historian of philosophy and a public policy analyst, an ordained rabbi. He previously served as chief of staff to Benjamin Netanyahu at the Israeli Ministry of Finance and as political assistant to Ariel Sharon in the Israeli parliament.
Speaking in Montana, Leiter spoke about his oldest son, Major (Res.) Moshe Yedidia Leiter, who served as a platoon commander in the IDF’s Shaldag Unit and was killed in the northern Gaza Strip in 2023.
His reflections on his son’s sacrifice touched the hearts of all in attendance.
Throughout the weekend, Leiter conversed with guests on a range of important topics, including the current debate over Israel’s military draft.
He also shared inspiring lessons on the importance of gratitude, which Rabbi Bruk said “will resonate with me for years to come.”
“Israel is blessed to have an Ambassador who lives Jewishly, devoted to Torah and mitzvos, and who is humble, gentle, and thoughtful,” Rabbi Bruk noted. “Bozeman was blessed to host you. Keep up the good fight for our people, our land, and Western civilization.”
