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Israeli government moves to adopt controversial loyalty oath
On Sunday, the Israeli cabinet approved a controversial loyalty oath that would require Palestinians and other non-Jewish prospective citizens to swear allegiance to Israel as a "Jewish and democratic state." Supporters say this measure will strengthen Israel's identity as the homeland of the Jewish people. But critics called the bill discriminatory and anti-democratic because it would not apply to Jewish immigrants seeking Israeli citizenship. They say the oath is primarily aimed at Palestinians applying for Israeli citizenship after marrying Arab Israelis. Is this a good move? Or counter-productive to the peace process?
On Sunday, the Israeli cabinet approved a controversial loyalty oath that would require Palestinians and other non-Jewish prospective citizens to swear allegiance to Israel as a "Jewish and democratic state." Supporters say this measure will strengthen Israel's identity as the homeland of the Jewish people. But critics called the bill discriminatory and anti-democratic because it would not apply to Jewish immigrants seeking Israeli citizenship. They say the oath is primarily aimed at Palestinians applying for Israeli citizenship after marrying Arab Israelis. Is this a good move? Or counter-productive to the peace process?
Guest:
Bradley Burston, columnist, Haaretz newspaper, a national Israeli news organization based in Tel Aviv