In response to the Israeli government’s suspension of legislative consideration of judicial reform measures, Conservative/Masorti movement organizations issued the following statement:
"We commend Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his decision to temporarily suspend his coalition's controversial judicial reform proposals. We are pleased that this policy has been postponed until at least after Passover, giving time for reflection on the potential ramifications of such an extreme overhaul. We salute the hundreds of thousands who filled the streets of Israel rallying for democracy. We also salute those within the coalition who listened to concerned voices in Israel and abroad and who have pushed for a government responsive to its citizens.
The Conservative/Masorti movement is committed to promoting the values of justice, equality, and democracy in Israel and around the world. We believe that the suspension of this proposal is a step in the right direction, and we call on all parties to work together to ensure that the rights and freedoms of all citizens are protected. This is the time to strengthen the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state as established in Israel’s Declaration of Independence.
We believe ardently that the proposed judicial reform is fraught with danger and goes against the principles of democracy. Democracy exists to protect the rights of minority parties against subjugation by a majority, or even a super-majority. The proposed legislation would have undermined the independence of the judiciary and jeopardized the democratic fabric of Israeli society.
The firing of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant following his call to pause this legislative push is also deeply concerning. Gallant's comments about security vulnerabilities raised by these divisions cannot be ignored. We expect the government to prioritize compromise and work towards a more cohesive and united Israel that ensures the safety and security of all citizens.
On the eve of celebrating Israel’s 75 years of independence, we aspire to a State of Israel which continues to build a future of stability and prosperity as a Jewish and democratic state.”
Signed,
Rabbinical Assembly
USCJ
The Schechter Institutes, Inc.
Cantors Assembly
Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs
Jewish Educators Assembly
Masorti Olami
MERCAZ Olami
MERCAZ USA
The North American Association of Synagogue Executives
Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano
Women's League for Conservative Judaism
Movement organizations have been updated.