Prime Minister Netanyahu Declares: Conversion Bill Will Tear Jewish People Apart

Reaction to the passage of the conversion bill by the Knesset law committee has been prolific and passionate. Viewed by its detractors as an act of political expedience and a severe blow to Israel-Diaspora relations, groups all across the political spectrum in Israel and the Diaspora have reacted strongly to what they see as an assault on the unity of the Jewish people. On the other hand, its supporters view it as the only hope for preserving that unity. While being marketed as a solution to the problem of Israel Beitanu’s constituency, those considered Jewish under the Law of Return, but not according to Halakha, it is feared that the proposed bill will further entrench the Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox monopoly over the definition of “who is a Jew,” and who is a legitimate convert.

For background and opinion:

http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/netanyahu-conversion-bill-will-tear-the-jewish-people-apart-1.302602

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