The National Council of Young Israel is supporting a Knesset bill that has generated significant opposition from many American Jewish groups.
In a letter dated July 30, the executive director and president of the council defended a proposal that permits the Israel Lands Authority to maintain its longstanding policy of refusing to lease to non-Jews Israeli land owned by the Jewish National Fund.
“Yes, Israel is a democracy; a bastion of freedom,” wrote President Shlomo Mostofsky and Executive Director Rabbi Pesach Lerner. “But a democracy doesn’t have to prove itself by forfeiting its right to its national purpose.”
Among those speaking out against the measure are the Union for Reform Judaism, the Anti-Defamation League and Ameinu, the American affiliate of the World Labor Zionist Movement. JNF’s American fund-raising arm and the Zionist Organization of America both support it.
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.
