Sabbath summit unites Israel's rival ultra-Orthodox parties
The leaders of Israel's distinct ultra-Orthodox sectors united for a unique summit on Sabbath observation in the public space and formulated a joint political strategy.
Israeli ultra-Orthodox leaders convened a special meeting on Sept. 7. After lengthy discussions, they approved the proposal by the community's politicians of continued cooperation with the government and the resolution of disputes over public Sabbath observance through dialogue. The ultra-Orthodox are fighting to reduce the number of work permits granted on the national day of rest, including maintenance work on the Israel Railway and soccer matches.
The rare joint meeting of the Council of Torah Sages representing Ashkenazi ultra-Orthodox Judaism and the rival Council of Torah Scholars of ultra-Orthodox Mizrahi lasted three hours. It was decided to grant the sector's politicians the authority to negotiate with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and others over the "desecration of the Sabbath" in Israel. Furthermore, the rabbis criticized ultra-Orthodox journalists and opinion shapers for attacking their Knesset and government representatives for promoting dialogue and a willingness to compromise to achieve their goals.
