Smotrich’s Son in Coma After Hezbollah Attack Amid Lebanon Conflict

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich posted an image on Wednesday of his son, Benya Hebron, in a coma following injuries sustained in a suspected Hezbollah mortar attack near the Lebanese border. The post, shared on X, included an update on Hebron’s condition, stating he had spent a “bit more calmly” night and was “progressing, God willing,” and requested continued prayers for his recovery and that of other wounded Israeli soldiers.

Hebron, a member of the Golani Brigade, was injured on March 6th when his unit came under fire during a period of heightened conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border. According to reports, shrapnel from the mortar strike tore through his liver, lodging near a major blood vessel. Smotrich earlier this week expressed hope for his son’s full recovery and return to service in the Israeli army.

The attack occurred amidst a surge in hostilities following Israel’s recent military actions against Iran and the subsequent launch of a large-scale assault on Lebanon. Since March 2nd, the conflict has resulted in the displacement of approximately one million Lebanese citizens and the deaths of over 1,000 people, according to reports. Israel has conducted further incursions into Lebanese territory and issued evacuation orders for residents in southern Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut.

The escalating violence has triggered a humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, described as one of the worst in decades. Smotrich, a prominent figure in Israel’s far-right political landscape, has previously advocated for the reoccupation of southern Lebanon, a position that appears to be gaining traction with Israel’s current military operations and demands that Lebanese citizens move north of the Litani River.

Smotrich has a controversial record, marked by statements perceived as encouraging ethnic cleansing and appearing to condone violence against Palestinians. His public sharing of his son’s condition comes as Israel continues its military campaign in Lebanon, with no immediate indication of a ceasefire or de-escalation.