Dear friends,
I began listening to live Israeli radio yesterday at 4:00AM and continued to monitor the news, listening to the reactions of Israelis and watching for glimpses of Gilad Shalit. Everyone is struggling. The arguments regarding the morality of the prisoner exchange are complex. Emotions are high all on sides. Moments after his release we listened to Gilad ask for peace as he is interviewed by Egyptian television. We see a thin pale boy, who has not seen the light of day or people for years, stare at the cameras and say that he hopes that all will lay down their weapons. At the same moment, we hear the released prisoners and terrorists, as well as their leaders, vow to kidnap more Israeli soldiers in order to gain the release of those left in Israeli prisons. This has been the dialogue for decades – peace vs. violence. Both side entrenched in their positions.
Friends,
Next week the Palestinian Authority will go to the United Nations to request recognition for Palestinian Statehood. This is a dangerous move for the stability of the region and the security of Israel. Israel is on high alert in preparation for the consequences of this vote. If the UN does not vote for a Palestinian State then there is danger of a third intifada. If the UN does vote and nothing changes because there can be no peace without direct negotiations of the parties, then a third intifada is likely to happen.
I have prepared a few excerpts for your reading as well as links. Stay informed. Next week could be a difficult one for Israel and the peace process.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Karyn Kedar
At 10:00 this morning, Jerusalem time, a siren was sounded throughout the land. For two minutes the heartbeat of the country quickened as the pace slowed to a standstill. Children stopped their lessons and stood in silence by their desks. Traffic on every street and highway stopped as people got out of their cars and stood in silence. This scene went on throughout Israel .
Last week, along with millions around the world, Ezra and I watched the Oscars. I admit, I like watching the pretty people, but mostly I was on my computer checking email and Facebook, while glancing at this fascinating pageantry of pop culture. I was proud, as a Jew and as a Zionist, that a short documentary about Israel won an Oscar, and when Natalie Portman won for Best Actress, Ezra and I commented once again on her Jewish and Israeli heritage.
Ezra and I are enjoying our time with family, taking long car rides to see the country, sitting in cafes and eating in great restaurants. I write to you now however, to bring to your attention a rather serious matter. Rabbi Eric Yoffie, president of the URJ writes the following:
