As Monsey Scoop’s parent company, YWN, first reported, Akiva Rand Z”L, a 29-year-old yungerman and father from Israel, was tragically killed in a traffic accident in Moldova. In the aftermath of the tragedy, an extraordinary behind-the-scenes diplomatic effort unfolded to ensure his body would be released before Shabbos.
Sources tell Monsey Scoop that Congressman Mike Lawler’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Rafi Silberberg, was contacted for assistance and immediately reached out to Congressman Lawler. The two spent hours working through diplomatic channels with U.S. and Moldovan officials in an effort to secure the release of the body. Congressman Lawler’s wife, who is originally from Moldova, also helped facilitate contacts with senior officials as efforts intensified throughout the day.
At the same time, Moti Babchik coordinated with the office of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, with both the congressional and Israeli government efforts working in tandem. The Prime Minister’s Office contacted the President of Moldova directly while Congressman Lawler continued working through U.S. diplomatic channels. Ultimately, Congressman Lawler received confirmation from Moldovan officials that the body would be released without an autopsy before Shabbos.
Those involved in the effort say special recognition is due to Congressman Mike Lawler, Deputy Chief of Staff Rafi Silberberg, Moti Babchik, and the Office of Prime Minister Netanyahu for their extraordinary efforts to ensure proper kavod hameis for Akiva Rand Z”L and his family.
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And Congressman Lawler’s wife in the last paragraph as being deserving of special thanks.