URJ Urges U.S. Administration to Reverse Today's Announcement on Israeli Settlements

New York, NY; November 18, 2019 - Union for Reform Judaism President Rabbi Rick Jacobs issued this statement:

"The URJ is greatly concerned about today’s statement by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo which, while focusing on international law, will be widely read as a broader change to the U.S. position on Israeli settlements - a policy which has been long held by both Republican and Democratic U.S. administrations.

Any unilateral move to this effect would place serious and critical obstacles to a viable two-state solution, damaging the prospect of renewing the negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority and causing a long-term threat to Israel’s status as a Jewish and democratic state. We urge the Trump Administration to reverse its position.”

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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 850 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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