Jewish Federation of San Diego Condemns Acts of Extremism in Israel

“The Jewish Federation of San Diego County stands in support of the following statement issued by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). We are committed to working with our partners in Israel to affect positive change in Israel and promote an agenda based on tolerance, respect and inclusion.”

- Steven J. Morris President and CEO, Jewish Federation of San Diego County

Over recent months, Israel has witnessed an abhorrent series of incidents perpetrated by individuals within the Haredi community. These actions stand in stark contrast to the Jewish and democratic values upon which the state was founded.

 The Jewish Federations of North America unequivocally condemns all such acts of violence, intimidation, prejudice and coercion. We stand firmly and resolutely behind those in Israel who have spoken out publicly against such incidents, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and leaders from across the political spectrum. We call on those who have not yet taken a public stand to do so.

We take heart in the fact that citizens and civic leaders from across the country – including from within the mainstream Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox community – are now denouncing these reprehensible actions and the extremists responsible.

On behalf of the North American Jewish community, we will continue to convey in no uncertain terms our growing concern to Israeli leaders about the impact of religious extremism and actively pursue opportunities to forge a common agenda focused on greater tolerance, mutual respect and inclusion.

The Jewish Federations remain united in our commitment to the Jewish state and all those working to strengthen Israeli society.

For more information on this issue, please visit this JFNA resource page and JFNA Webpage - Challenges in Israel's Civil Society.

JFNA will continue to monitor the situation in Israel and keep Federations informed.