Marriage and Conversion in the State of Israel

March 12 2015

In Israel, the chief rabbinate is responsible for matters pertaining to marriage and conversion to Judaism. Among the problems resulting from this system is the fact that many Israeli citizens of partial Jewish ancestry, who are recognized as Jews by Israel’s law of return but not by the rabbinate, find it difficult to marry. David Stav and Seth Farber, two rabbis who have devoted much effort to addressing these issues, discuss a bill on the subject recently passed by the Knesset and possibilities for further reform. (Moderated by Shlomo Brody; video, 90 minutes.)

Read more at Tikvah Fund

More about: Civil marriage, Conversion, Israel & Zionism, Israeli Chief Rabbinate, Judaism in Israel, Religion & Holidays

Kuwait Should Be the Next Country to Make Peace with Israel

Feb. 13 2025

Like his predecessor, Donald Trump seeks to expand the Abraham Accords to include Saudi Arabia. But there are other Arab nations that might consider taking such a step. Ahmad Charai points to Kuwait—home to the Middle East’s largest U.S. army base and desperately in need of economic reform—as a good candidate. Kuwaitis haven’t forgiven Palestinians for supporting Saddam Hussein during his 1990 invasion, but their country has been more rhetorically hostile to Israel than its Gulf neighbors:

The Abraham Accords have reshaped Middle Eastern diplomacy. . . . Kuwait, however, remains hesitant due to internal political resistance. While full normalization may not be immediately feasible, the United States should encourage Kuwait to take gradual steps toward engagement, emphasizing how participation in regional cooperation does not equate to abandoning its historical positions.

Kuwait could use its influence to push for peace in the Middle East through diplomatic channels opened by engagement rather than isolation. The economic benefits of joining the broader framework of the Abraham Accords are overwhelming. Israel’s leadership in technology, agriculture, and water management presents valuable opportunities for Kuwait to enhance its infrastructure. Trade and investment flows would diversify the economy, providing new markets and business partnerships.

Kuwaiti youth, who are increasingly looking for opportunities beyond the public sector, could benefit from collaboration with advanced industries, fostering job creation and entrepreneurial growth. The UAE and Bahrain have already demonstrated how normalization with Israel can drive economic expansion while maintaining their respective geopolitical identities.

Read more at Jerusalem Strategic Tribune

More about: Abraham Accords, Kuwait