In connection with the recent developments regarding the formation of the government coalition in Israel, Rabbi Bernard Bergman, member of the Presidium of the World Mizrachi-Hapoel Hamizrachi movement, demanded that all religious parties unite in the negotiations in joining the government. In a major address to more than 2000 persons at the Agudas Harabanim conference last Sunday, Rabbi Bergman indicated that this demand reflects the present reality in Israel.
“A united entry into the government by Mizrachi-Hapoel Hamizrachi, Agudah and Poale Agudah will make the future coalition independent of the anti-religions elements which undermine our religious foundations and constitute a danger to Judaism, not only in Israel but throughout the entire world.” he said.
Rabbi Bergman indicated that, with the five Knesset representatives of the Agudah and Poale Aguda who, in any event, support the government, the religious bloc will have a total of 15 members in the coalition with which it will be able to put into law Giyur K’Halacha, Sabbath laws, prohibition of autopsies, kashruth laws and other important requirements of the religious community. “To pass up this rare opportunity would be a grave error,” he said. Such views are supported by Orthodox public opinion. He added that the religious bloc can contribute by stating publicly that it will not vote with the Alignment so long as the Law of Return is not amended according to halacha.
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