Statement from Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy:

We were pleased to meet today with Hamish Falconer, Minister for the Middle East, and then with the Solicitor General, Sarah Sackman, to hear about the Government’s approach to Israel/Palestine and the relationship with the Jewish community.

As leaders of Progressive Judaism – the second largest denomination in the UK – we stressed the importance of Government hearing the full diversity of views that exist within the UK Jewish community.  We were pleased to engage in deep conversations about the complex decisions that the Government is facing.

We shared the fundamental Jewish ideals that underpin our approach as Progressive Jews – the values of justice, peace, the rule of law and the sanctity of human life.

We explained that central to our Zionism is a commitment to self-determination for both Jews and Palestinians and respect for the human rights and dignity of all peoples.

We agreed that it is possible to be a firm friend and supporter of Israel and to call for the immediate return of the hostages, while also upholding international law, striving for peace and challenging extremism on all sides.

While we may disagree with aspects of the UK Government’s policies, we were reassured by the commitment we heard to Israel and the UK Jewish community.

We were pleased to hear that the values and ideals we uphold – and which are under threat around the world, including in Israel – are central to their approach.