US Jewish Groups Speak Out On New Israeli Government

A statement from the Jewish Federations of North America, however, indicated consternation with the makeup of the new government.

Pointing to the Federations’ “long and fruitful relationship” with Netanyahu, it promised to work with him and the new government “to support the growth and vitality of the Jewish state and to strengthen the relationships between Israel and the North American Jewish community.”

It expressed, though, “significant concerns over statements and positions held by some members of the incoming coalition, which have serious implications for our Jewish communities,” and said it would continue to make its own positions known while advocating for “policies and initiatives that help build a welcoming, inclusive and pluralistic society.”

The Federations statement called Israeli-North American Jewry ties “eternal” and “unbreakable” and said that its commitment to Israel “transcends any one government, any one point in time, and any particular policy or statement.”

The American Jewish Committee released its own statement last week when Netanyahu announced he had formed his government, noting its 40-plus-year relationship with him.

“Due to AJC’s long-standing working relationships with Israeli government officials on shared priorities, as well as our profound admiration and respect for Israel’s vibrant democracy and civil society, we trust that Israel will continue to uphold the values that have allowed it to stand out as a beacon of freedom in the Middle East and as a source of pride and spiritual sustenance for the Jewish people as a whole,” the statement said.