Reform Judaism statement on Israel-UAE agreement

Reform Judaism welcomes the news that Israel and the United Arab Emirates are to normalise relations. We pray daily for peace in the Middle East and between Israel and her neighbours – we are delighted to see any small step towards this hope. Having open relations and working together is a vital first step to building the foundations of a peaceful relationship: understanding and trust.

We are also glad to hear that Israel has stepped back from the immediate annexation of the West Bank. Reform Judaism believes that the only viable path to peace between Israel and the Palestinians is through two secure and stable states able to live side-by-side. Unilateral steps such as annexation would only harm the possibility of making this a reality.

Whilst the halt to annexation is welcome, it alone is not enough. This news does nothing to change the on-the-ground reality of Israel’s occupation of the West Bank. We continue to support Israelis and Palestinians who are striving to end this status quo and lay the groundwork for a peaceful resolution to this conflict at long last.

Oseh shalom bimromav hu ya’asei shalom aleinu v’al kol Yisrael v’al kol ha’olam, v’imru amen.
May the one who makes peace in the high places bring peace on us, on all Israel and on all the world. Amen.