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British Jewish Leaders Face Disciplinary Action Over Gaza Criticism
Over three dozen members of the leading organization representing British Jews are facing disciplinary proceedings after signing a public letter criticizing Israel’s actions in the Gaza conflict. This internal dispute highlights the deepening divisions among British Jews regarding the ongoing war.
Board of Deputies Responds to Open Letter
The Board of Deputies announced this week that the 36 signatories of the letter are now “subject to a complaints procedure” following “multiple grievances.” This action underscores the sensitivity surrounding differing viewpoints on the Israeli-Palestinian situation within the British Jewish community.
Suspension and Investigation
- Harriett Goldenberg, a vice-chair of the board’s international division, was suspended pending the inquiry.
- She was also asked to step back from her role on the executive committee until the investigation concludes, according to the Jewish Chronicle.
Board’s Stance
A statement from the board asserted the letter “was not representative” of its official policy concerning Israel. An extraordinary session of its executive committee convened on Tuesday to “deliberate on the ramifications and consequences of this act.”
The committee unanimously voted to initiate a formal complaints process, projected to span at least four weeks, according to the board.
Signatories’ Concerns Regarding the Gaza Conflict
Reasons for Speaking Out
The signatories of the letter, published in the Financial Times, stated they could no longer “turn a blind eye or remain silent” regarding the hostilities in Gaza. “Israel’s soul is being ripped out,” they declared.
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They further explained: “The inclination to avert our eyes is strong, as what is happening is unbearable, but our Jewish values compel us to stand up and to speak out.”
Support for Israel
Since the commencement of the war, following the attacks by Hamas against Israelis on October 7, 2023, the Board of Deputies’ statements have generally supported the Israeli government.
Official Statements and Internal Divisions
Board President’s Remarks
Following the executive committee meeting, Phil Rosenberg, the board’s president, stated: “We take alleged breaches of the code of conduct very seriously. The Board of Deputies is clear: only our democratically elected honorary officers and authorized staff speak on behalf of the organization.”
Chief Executive’s Perspective
Michael Wegier, the board’s chief executive, mentioned a group of deputies had “aired their views in a national publication, specifically in their capacity as deputies, leading them to an incorrect assumption by a significant number of people in our community and beyond that this group is putting forward the board’s official position, which it is not.”
Potential Consequences
Wegier added in the Jewish Chronicle that “taking the legitimate and often painful debate within our community to the letters pages of national newspapers, and sowing confusion about the position of the community as a whole, is a shortsighted and dangerous precedent.”
Denominational Differences
Most of the letter’s signatories are affiliated with Reform, Liberal, or Masorti congregations. Reports indicate that numerous complaints originated from members of the United Synagogue, the largest Jewish denomination in the UK.
Request for Comment
Goldenberg has been contacted for comment regarding the matter.