In a Channel 14 broadcast, attorney Shmuel Berkovitz, an expert on holy sites, stated that the Western Wall plaza has been operating as an Orthodox synagogue since Jerusalem's liberation, and that this is the only recognized stream in Israel. He criticized the activist group known as 'Women of Provocation', accusing them of seeking to destroy the people of Israel and cause gratuitous hatred.
Attorney Shmuel Berkovitz, an expert on holy sites, made the remarks in a Channel 14 broadcast aired Monday evening. He stated that the Western Wall plaza has been functioning as an Orthodox synagogue since the liberation of Jerusalem in 1967, and that Orthodox Judaism is the only stream recognized by Israeli law at the site. He further criticized the activist group referred to in the broadcast as 'Women of Provocation' (נשות הפרובוקציה), accusing them of acting to 'destroy the people of Israel' and 'cause gratuitous hatred'. The group, which is also known internationally as Women of the Wall, has long challenged the Orthodox monopoly at the Western Wall by holding non-traditional prayer services and introducing Torah scrolls into the women's section. The broadcast included additional quotes from Berkovitz, who said, 'It is not possible that a small handful of women will dictate our agenda. We have fixed regulations.' The comments come amid ongoing tensions over religious pluralism at one of Judaism's holiest sites. As of this report, no response from the activist group has been published. The Zioneer has previously covered the group's activities under the topic 'Women of Provocation'.
2 developments
- DevelopingWoman carries Torah scroll and Pride flag at Western Wall, provoking outcry
- StrongClashes at Western Wall on Rosh Chodesh Av; one Women of the Wall activist arrested
- StrongReform group holds 'minyan' at the Western Wall, clashes with other worshippers
- DevelopingChannel 14 to Premiere Documentary 'The Battle for the Wall' Tonight
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