Rabbis Danny Rich & Laura Janner-Klausner
13 September 2018

Liberal Judaism and Reform Judaism stand united in condemning the Israeli Government’s proposed demolition of the Bedouin village of Khan al-Ahmar, in the West Bank, and the forcible transfer of its residents.

Despite almost universal international condemnation – including from the UK Government and European Parliament – the Israeli administration looks set to press ahead.

If the planned demolition does proceed, around 200 people will lose their homes and children will lose their school. It will also set a precedent that could lead to the demolition of other towns and villages in the area.

As British Progressive Zionists, we strongly support a two-state solution in Israel and Palestine, something these actions will make even harder to achieve.

Bedouin communities have previously been seen as a part of the fabric of Israel – yet are now the subject of persecution and forcible transfer from their homes.

Furthermore, we fear this demolition will set the stage for the further expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

As rabbis, we lead services every Shabbat asking that Israeli leaders and citizens be inspired with a faithfulness to the aims of its founders: to develop the land for the benefit of all its inhabitants and to implement the Prophetic ideals of liberty and justice. Demolishing Khan al- Ahmar goes against what we pray for each and every Shabbat.