US Reform movement hopeful new government will advance pluralistic agenda

The North American Reform Jewish Movement welcomes the new Israeli government, led by Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid.

“As the largest Jewish movement in Diaspora life, we are hopeful that this new government, unprecedented in the ideological diversity of its members, will be able to implement many of the aspirations that PM Bennett laid out in his inaugural speech,” it says.

“We hope the government will renew ties with our movement in Israel and abroad, commit to furthering a pluralistic agenda, combat extremism and incitement — including through police enforcement against the horrific incidents of hatred and physical violence as seen on Friday at the Western Wall plaza — and be a government for all of Israel’s citizens. We also hope this government will reaffirm the importance of a strong US-Israel relationship, prioritizing bipartisan outreach and engagement.

“PM Naftali Bennett and his government will face formidable challenges in the coming days, weeks, and years, yet we are hopeful for a stable government that will lead with integrity and courage.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership and connections with the government of Israel – to work with political parties on the right and the left, and for all future opportunities to work together in building a more pluralistic, tolerant, and democratic state,” it concludes.

The new government is expected to implement the plan for the Western Wall’s pluralistic plaza. The new coalition also includes Israel’s first Reform rabbi lawmaker, Labor’s Gilad Kariv.