JCRC Statement
September 15, 2020
Washington DC—September 15, 2020 – The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Greater Washington and The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington join Jewish communities around the world in welcoming today’s historic signing of a peace accord between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. The two Arab countries finalized the normalization of relations and establishment of full diplomatic relations with Israel at a White House ceremony.
“American Jews welcome this positive development and are excited to see forward momentum to fully integrate Israel into the region,” said Ron Halber, Executive Director of the JCRC. “Every crack in the wall of opposition to Israel’s international acceptance paves the way for further diplomatic relations between Israel and its neighbors in the Arab and Muslim world, and brings us closer to peace in the region.”
“We hope that today’s historic accords bring us closer to a regional solution to the long-standing conflicts in the region,” said Gil Preuss, CEO of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. “Israel has long awaited true and lasting peace and partnership within the Arab world to address the needs of all who call the region home. Today brings us two steps closer to realizing that vision.”
About the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Greater Washington
The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington (JCRC) is the public affairs and community relations arm of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington representing over 100 Jewish organizations and synagogues throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia. The JCRC focuses on government relations, Israel advocacy, inter-group relations, and social justice.
About The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington
The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington envisions an open, connected, and vibrant Jewish community that cares for each other, fosters Jewish learning and journeys, embraces Jewish peoplehood and Israel, and acts as a force for good in the world. As a mission-driven non-profit organization, we work to inspire, build, and sustain vibrant Jewish life in a changing world by mobilizing our community in common purpose, intentional innovation, and effective action. Learn more at shalomdc.org.