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The conversation on Israel’s plans for a potential change of policy regarding parts of the West Bank on July 1 looms nearer. Amid wide criticism of potential of plans to annex or apply sovereignty to parts of the west bank, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the decision is Israel's to make. Pompeo’s remarks followed a United Nations Security Council session, during which the UN and the Arab League, together, called for Israel to abandon its plans, and warned of dangerous consequences if the move were to go forward. As tensions rise, our JCRC remains committed to serving as a resource so that our community can better understand the complexities and wide range of diverse perspectives on this issue. We have created this regularly updated web page for your use as the situation develops.
The number of coronavirus cases in Israel surged to its highest daily total of the last two months, with 532 new infections reported on Wednesday. The recent uptick has prompted the government to consider additional measures for preventing the virus from spreading further. On Wednesday, the government unanimously approved one such measure: using the Shin Bet domestic security service to track confirmed coronavirus carriers. This monitoring by the Shin Bet has raised some concerns over privacy and civil liberties, but it reflects the government's concern with doing everything in its power to stop the virus' spread. Another measure implemented this week was extending the ban on foreigners entering into Israel until at least August 1. Given the significance of the tourism industry to the Israeli economy, Israel is eager to reopen the country to foreign visitors.
The Tel Aviv-Jaffa municipality announced that they will now recognize same-sex, interfaith, and other types of marriages. Tel Aviv-Jaffa Mayor Ron Huldai made the announcement on Sunday, in honor of the city’s Pride Week. Couples who live together and choose to register their relationship with the city will then be eligible for municipal benefits, including housing tax discounts and, for their children, easier enrollment into public daycares and schools. This recognition at the municipal level has no impact on the issue at the national level—where same-sex marriages are not performed by the Orthodox-controlled rabbinate and those performed in Israel are not recognized by the state. Marriages performed outside of Israel can be registered with the state.
The safety, health, and well-being of all community members is a priority for the Jewish Federation. Like many of you, we are closely monitoring the evolution of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. This page has been developed to help our community stay informed and provide the resources needed to maintain a sense of connection. As more resources are curated, this page will be continually updated.
We will not be sending an update next Friday as our offices will be closed in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. Shabbat Shalom, Jackie Congedo, Director, JCRC |
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