Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not meet with heads of American Jewish organizations during his week-long visit to Washington DC, according to two senior leaders of these groups. Despite meeting with senior administration officials and Evangelical leaders, the decision was seen as “offensive” by some in the community. This move comes as a surprise, given that Israeli prime ministers traditionally meet with the Jewish leadership when visiting abroad.
Netanyahu’s complicated past with US Jewish leaders has been marked by disputes over issues such as the establishment of an egalitarian prayer plaza at the Western Wall and his government’s handling of anti-judicial reform protests. His envoy to the US, Ron Dermer, previously encouraged the creation of a new organization of American rabbis, but not through official channels.
The decision not to meet with Jewish organizations has been met with criticism from some in the community, who argue that unity is essential during times of conflict. The Prime Minister’s Office has yet to respond to requests for comment on this matter.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/us-elections/article-841034