Jewish Federations of North America on Wednesday congratulated incoming Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on forming a new government but also expressed concerns over the positions of some of its members.
“We have had a long and fruitful relationship with the incoming Prime Minister and we look forward to continuing to work with him and the new government to support the growth and vitality of the Jewish State and to strengthen the relationships between Israel and the North American Jewish community,” ,” the Jewish Federations said.
“We look forward to celebrating Israel’s 75th Independence Day with the Prime Minister and thousands of North American leaders who will be coming to Israel this April to mark this proud milestone at Federations’ special ‘Israel at 75 General Assembly.’”
“Jewish Federations’ commitment to strengthening the ties between Israel and North American Jewry is an eternal one, and the bonds that unite our two communities are unbreakable. Our love and commitment to the Jewish State transcends any one government, any one point in time, and any particular policy or statement.”
“With this principle in mind, it is important to express our significant concerns over statements and positions held by some members of the incoming coalition, which have serious implications for our Jewish communities,” the Jewish Federations noted. “We will continue to make clear the North American Jewish community’s perspective on relevant government proposals and to advocate for policies and initiatives that help build a welcoming, inclusive and pluralistic society.”
Netanyahu on Wednesday began a round of meetings with Likud MKs ahead of the swearing-in of the new government on Thursday.
The Prime Minister-designate informed MK Yoav Galant that he would be appointed as Defense Minister in the new government.
Before that, on Netanyahu's recommendation, the Likud faction elected MK Amir Ohana to the position of Speaker of the Knesset.
Also on Wednesday, the Religious Zionist Party signed a final coalition agreement with the Likud.
The one-MK Noam faction also signed a final coalition deal with the Likud Wednesday.
Both parties had already signed preliminary coalition deals with the Likud, delineating the ministerial and Knesset leadership positions the parties will receive.
The haredi United Torah Judaism party also signed a full coalition agreement with the Likud Wednesday morning.