Board of Deputies announces date for Israel debate

Deputies are to debate three motions about Israel next month amid the country’s plans to annex parts of the West Bank.

The umbrella group is to hold training and information sessions for deputies ahead of the plenary meeting, to take place on 23 August.

A Board of Deputies spokesperson told Jewish News the training sessions aim to “provide a balanced view of the political situation in Israel regarding the proposed annexation.”

It remains unconfirmed whether the meeting will be live-streamed or held behind closed doors, Jewish News understands.

One of the motions, submitted last month by Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue deputy Tal Ofer reaffirms “support for bilateral negotiations towards a two-state solution leading to a secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state.”

The language, seconded by deputy Richard Cohen, reads: “Any unilateral step by either side will be damaging to renewed efforts to restart peace negotiations.”