Contact: Lauren Theodore at 212-650-4154
New York, NY; January 24, 2017 – Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President of the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), issued the following statement in response to the Israeli government's announcement of increased settlement building:
“We are extremely concerned by the announcements of recent days from the Israeli government about building expansively in East Jerusalem and adding 2,500 units to the settlement bloc and area surrounding Ma’ale Adumim. While forces inside the Israeli government see this as a ‘green light’ for settlement growth, we fear that this type of activity is a red light for the future of Israel as a Jewish democratic state. As we have stated clearly and consistently, this short-sighted policy shift on Israel’s part – and on the part of the new US Administration, breaking with longstanding bipartisan White House policy, if indeed, the Trump Administration is condoning this – is harmful to Israel’s future and to Israel’s security.”
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About the Union for Reform Judaism
The Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) builds community at every level—from the way we collaborate with congregations, organizations, and individuals to how we make connections across North America to advance contemporary and inclusive Jewish life. Providing vision and voice to transform the way people connect to Judaism, we help congregations stay relevant and innovative, motivate more young Jews to embrace Jewish living, agitate for a more progressive society, and foster meaningful connections to Israel.
Founded in 1873, URJ has grown into the largest and most powerful force in North American Jewish life, with nearly 900 member congregations and work that inspires, connects, and educates millions of people. Our legacy, reach, leadership, and vision mean that we can unite thousands of years of tradition with a modern, evolving Judaism to strengthen Jewish communities today and for future generations.
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