Leaders from Progressive Judaism met with Ami Ayalon, one of the founders of Blue White Future (BWF) – a non-partisan political movement committed to securing the future of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.

A former head of Shin Bet, Israel’s secret service, and Commander-in-Chief of the Navy, he is campaigning to achieve a permanent peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Rabbi DY Stern with Ami Ayalon

Those in attendance at the lunch, organised by Yachad, included Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky, as well as Rabbis David-Yehuda Stern, Rebecca Birk and Jordan Helfman.

Rabbi Charley said: “I am continually struck by the need for our voice in the Jewish community, here and in Israel, to raise up those like Ami who believe there can be a different narrative and that a different tomorrow is not only possible, it’s absolutely necessary.”

Rabbi DY added: “Ami’s message was clear – peace requires both sides to have HOPE; hope that there is a way forward without violence. Only through diplomacy will sustainable peace and security be achieved.”