The launch of our “Call to Reason” has triggered a huge debate among Jewish communities throughout Europe, and we are delighted to see this. These communities ceased any fundamental and meaningful discussions years ago, mainly because they are afraid of seeing Israel’s enemies strengthen their position. The only audible voice is that of official Jewish institutions. One of the consequences is that many Jewish citizens, claiming an unfailing attachment to the state of Israel even though they do not agree with its government’s politics, simply do not feel represented. These institutions, though legitimate, side systematically with the Israeli government’s politics, and we believe that time has come for us to make our voice heard. It is essential in our minds to dissociate an unquestioning support of the state of Israel from its government’s policies. We therefore claim the right to participate in a debate that will shape the future of the country, something that concerns all of us. Many Israeli intellectuals have welcomed our Call to Reason and expressed their support in the press, which shows that this right is also acknowledged in Israel. In order to prevent any misinterpretation of our position, we emphasize that we are totally aware that the Israeli government alone is legitimately entitled to negociate with official Palestinian representatives.
Facing the outpouring of criticism unleashed by our Call to Reason, we have decided to open this column to several opinions written by various personalities, mainly signatories of this Call, along with those who have joined the Call or expressed their reactions as guests on radio programs. These exchanges will continue to be enriched in the future.
Vu d’Israël :
- Yossi Sarid dans Haaretz - 2 mai 2010
- Editorial d’Haaretz - 3 mai 2010
- Carlo Strenger dans Haaretz - 3 mai 2010