Rivlin with Rabbi Eitan Shnerb and his son Dvir
Rivlin with Rabbi Eitan Shnerb and his son DvirMark Neiman/ GPO

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin on Monday visited Rabbi Eitan Shnerb and his son Dvir Haim at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital.

Rabbi Eitan and Dvir were injured Friday in a bombing that killed Rina Shnerb, 17.

The three had been hiking at the Ein Bubin spring when an explosive device detonated near them, killing Rina instantly and injuring Rabbi Eitan lightly to moderately, while seriously wounding Dvir.

Both underwent operations, and they are now in the same hospital room. At their side were many close family members and friends who came to support Eitan and Dvir as they recover.

Rabbi Eitan's daughter, Tamar, was with her father and brother at the time of Rivlin's visit.

"You in Lod are doing a huge thing for the State of Israel and for the people of Israel," Rivlin told them. "Lod is a microcosm of all our lives here. This is the homeland of the Jewish people. It is the Promised Land and all around the world, people make sure to tell us that this is where we belong."

"Your spirit and abilities, Rabbi Eitan, both spiritual and leadership, strengthen us so much here in this country. We weep for Rina, and she deserves our tears, but we also get up and carry on. And it is so important for us to continue to make sure Rina’s voice continues to be heard. Choose life and keep strong."

Earlier on Monday, Israeli security forces arrested the terrorists responsible for the attack.