US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman had his staff contact the Yesha Council in order for them to deliver his personal letter of condolence to the family of Rabbi Itamar Ben-Gal HY”D of Har Bracha. Rabbi Ben-Gal was stabbed to death by an Arab terrorist while waiting for a ride last week near the Shomron community of Ariel.

Following is the text of Friedman’s letter to the bereaved family.

“Dear Mrs. Ben-Gal and Children,

“Perhaps the most difficult task I have as the US Ambassador to Israel is that of consoling victims of terror. Once again, my heart breaks as I reach out to a beautiful family that has lost a husband and a father.

“There is no greater contribution in life than the providing for the education and development of the next generation. By devoting his life to teaching at Yeshiva Bnei Akiva in Givat Shmuel as well as in your hometown of Har Bracha, Rabbi Ben-Gal pursued this mission not as a job, but as a higher calling. Upon hearing your words at the funeral about the life of your husband, it became clear to me that you, too, have an inner strength and courage cultivated by a life of care and concern for others.

“Just as Rabbi Ben-Gal dedicated himself to nurturing others, during this terrible time the Government and people of the United States of America are standing with you, your precious family and community.

“Wishing you no further sorrow and may Rav Itamar Ben-Gal’s memory be a blessing to your entire family.”

“May his memory be a blessing,” he wrote in Hebrew, as well as HaMakom Yenachem…

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)