Reform warn UK government on action ‘that might undermine peace’ in Middle East
Movement for Reform Judaism issue statement in response to UK government proposal to move embassy to Jerusalem - as Board President is bombarded with letters both in support and critical of her comments on issue
Lee Harpin is the Jewish News's political editor
Reform Judaism have issued an unprecedented statement in response to the government’s proposed review of the site of the UK embassy in Israel warning against “taking action that might undermine peace in the region.”
The Movement for Reform Judaism – which represents around one-quarter of affiliated Jews in this country – used the statement to stress it is “unequivocally Zionist” and has a “non negotiable commitment” to Israel’s security.
But citing “the pursuit of peace” in Israel as “the highest ideal and priority”, it added the “only just a realistic solution” to the Middle East conflict was “two viable states.”
While not explicitly referring to the “review” into moving the UK embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, it concluded by stating “we would caution against the government taking action that might undermine peace in the region.”
— Reform Judaism (@ReformMovement) October 9, 2022
Meanwhile, in response to Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl’s speech at a Conservative Friends of Israel event last week in which she openly supported the government’s proposal, a letter has circulated within the community backing her remarks.
The letter, signed by over 250 people, including Board honorary officer Edwin Shuker, states that the signatories “applaud” van der Zyl on her comments.
It adds: “We note with dismay that certain groups that are active on the fringes of our community have now launched a politicised campaign criticising your call.
“We wanted to reassure you that such views are the domain of a tiny minority.
“Their ‘arguments’ don’t just run contrary to the views of the vast majority of Jews, but they are full of internal contradictions and do not withstand close scrutiny.”
The letter states it has been signed by individuals who “differ in terms of political opinions and religious practice”, and other signatories include the some of the most outspoken pro-Israel campaigners in the UK.
But Jewish News understands that over 220 people have sent letters to the Board President outlining their concern at her speech, made at Tory Party conference in Birmingham, in front of Liz Truss.
“Pro-peace” organisation Yachad have urged their supporters to write directly to van der Zyl as part of a “no to UK embassy move” campaign.
There is also discussion amongst deputies about a further response to the Board president on the issue.
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