By Rhoda Smolow & Naomi Adler
We are deeply disappointed that the Israeli government passed the first piece of the judicial reform legislation despite widespread calls — from Israel's President Isaac Herzog and the many non-partisan organizations and Israeli citizens — to work toward reform together and to bridge the divides.
As a devoted supporter of our beloved land of Israel and her people for over a century, Hadassah has continuously expressed our values regarding Zionism, democracy and respect for all. We believe Zionism can best flourish in a democratic Israel that includes checks and balances and inclusive, open-minded dialog to reach consensus, compromise and mutual understanding. We echo President Herzog's sentiments from his speech to Congress last week: "We must find the way to talk to each other no matter how long it takes."
This week, we are reminded of the importance of the fast day of Tisha B'Av, remembering the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem and ever mindful that what unites us is more important than what divides us.
Hadassah will continue to meet with Israeli and US leaders to voice our concerns and advocate for a strong US-Israel relationship as we remain steadfast in our unwavering commitment to our mission.