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Monday, July 11, 2005

Our Right To Speak Out On Israel II

R. Jeffrey Saks pointed me to a number of statements by R. Joseph B. Soloveitchik on this topic in his recently published letters, Community, Covenant and Commitment: Selected Letters and Communications:

"I never declared any opinion on issues [of territorial compromise in Israel] that according to my view only those Jews who are defending the borders of the land with their blood have a right to deal with." (p. 231)

"[However,] since I am not a resident of Eretz Yisrael (a point I emphasized), it is impossible for me to publicize my opinion. Diaspora Jews should not involve themselves in the internal affairs in Israel." (p. 198)

"[Q:] Do you support the peace proposal of Dr. Henry Kisssinger...?

[A:] I do not live in Eretz Yisrael and I have no right to express my opinion on these matters." (p. 235)


(An additional thanks goes to Joel Rich who also brought these to my attention)