March 1, 2026
With war now underway in Israel, our focus is squarely on supporting those in Israel under attack, as we also hold in our thoughts civilians and US and IDF troops in harm’s way.
We wish healing to those injured, we mourn those who have been killed in the past day and extend our deepest condolences to their families. May their memories be a blessing, and may comfort be found among all who grieve.
Last week, we launched a protest campaign against the Knesset’s Kotel bill. In light of the war and the current national emergency, we are pausing our campaign. Knesset discussions on the bill have also been paused.
We are grateful to the more than 10,000 individuals who added their voices, a sign of their love and support being extended to Israel and the Jewish people at this time.
Our position has not changed. We remain committed to preserving Jewish unity and the strong bond between the State of Israel and world Jewry. However, as Israelis remain under threat our priority is to strengthen the State of Israel during this war.
To stay informed about developments regarding the war, and about the Kotel bill when and if relevant, we encourage you to join our WhatsApp group at the link below. We will also share details there about an upcoming informational Zoom briefing we are preparing.
When the fighting ends, we sincerely hope there will be no need to resume our struggle around the Kotel – that the Government of Israel will choose a path of mutual respect, recognizing that Jewish unity is more important than any dispute.
At this time, we stand together – for the security of Israel, for its people, and for the shared future of the Jewish world.
Margo Gold, President of Masorti Olami
Rabbi Debra Newman Kamin, President of MERCAZ Olami
Rabbi Mauricio Balter, Executive Director of MERCAZ Olami and Masorti Olami
Rabbi Hillel Skolnik, President of MERCAZ USA
