Peres criticizes Israel’s ‘Jewish state’ bill
Israel’s declaration of independence defined Israel as both Jewish and democratic
Israel’s former president has come out against a bill floated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that would define Israel as “the Jewish state.”
At a ceremony alongside Netanyahu on Thursday, Shimon Peres said the legislation was driven by political interests, would hurt the country’s image and erode Israel’s “democratic principles.”
Israel’s declaration of independence defined Israel as both Jewish and democratic.
Netanyahu’s bill seeks to enshrine that status at the constitutional level. But critics say the wording would upset the balance between those two ideals, undermining its democratic character and harm the rights of Arab citizens.
Peres, who retired earlier this year, joined his successor, Reuven Rivlin in opposing the bill.
The presidency is a largely ceremonial office that is meant to serve as a moral compass for the nation.
-
Sweden says no plans to open Ramallah embassy
Sweden last month officially recognised the state of Palestine, a move that infuriated Israel Middle East -
Spanish MPs urge govt to recognize Palestine
Spanish lawmakers adopted a motion submitted by the opposition Socialists to recognize Palestine Middle East -
How serious is Spain about recognizing Palestine?
The parliamentary vote urging the Spanish government to recognize Palestine is not binding and sets no timeframe, raising questions about its significance Analysis -
Tunisian wins Muslim beauty pageant, calls for free Palestine
Computer scientist Fatma Ben Guefrache was announced the winner and received a prize which includes a gold watch, a gold dinar, and mini pilgrimage to Mecca Fashion and beauty -
Where is international solidarity with Palestine?
Sweden’s decision to recognize the state of Palestine on the 1967 borders points to the end of the pass given to Israel Middle East