Rabbi Moshe Fein-stein, president of the Union of Orthodox Rabbis of the United States and Canada, sent a cable yesterday to the religious parties in Israel — Aguda Israel, the National Religious Party and Tami — stating that a primary and essential condition to their participation in a coalition government headed by Premier Menachem Begin must be a firm commitment by Begin to amend the Law of Return immediately without further delay.
Feinstein emphasized: “Do not rely on any promises that ‘we will try’ to amend the law. You must demand a clear and unequivocal commitment that the law will be amended immediately to read Giyur KeHalacha (according to Halacha).” He added that it is now quite evident that the opportunity for such a demand is ripe. “Do not let this opportunity pass you by,” Feinstein declared.
He also urged the religious parties to include in their demands a law prohibiting the desecration of the Sabbath and legislation barring the Conservative and Reform movements from making any inroads in Israel.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
