Breaking News

Obama to Deliver New Muslim World Speech

05/11/2011

WASHINGTON (JTA) -- President Obama reportedly is planning a new speech to the Muslim world that would call for a rejection of Islamic militancy.

The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that the White House is planning for such a speech within the next two weeks, just as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to roll out proposals for reviving peace talks with the Palestinians in a meeting with Obama and in a speech to the U.S. Congress.

Tony Kushner to Receive CUNY Honorary Degree After All

05/10/2011

(JTA) -- Trustees of the City University of New York's approved an honorary degree for playwright Tony Kushner, reversing an earlier decision.

The executive committee of the CUNY board of trustees voted Monday night to award Kushner an honorary doctorate during commencement ceremonies next month. The committee can reverse decisions of the full board.

Half of Democratic Senators Urge P.A. Aid Cut-Off

05/09/2011

WASHINGTON (JTA) -- Half the Democratic caucus in the U.S. Senate urged President Obama to suspend assistance to the Palestinian Authority unless Hamas recognizes Israel and renounces terrorism.

"It is imperative for you to make clear to President Abbas that Palestinian Authority participation in a unity government with an unreformed Hamas will jeopardize its relationship with the United States, including its receipt of U.S. aid," said the letter sent May 6 to Obama and signed by 27 Democratic senators.

Obama to Host Second Jewish Heritage Reception

05/09/2011

WASHINGTON (JTA) -- President Obama will host another Jewish American Heritage Month reception, days before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrives in Washington.

Pelosi Delegation Meets With Netanyahu

05/08/2011

WASHINGTON (JTA) -- A delegation of Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives led by Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), the minority leader, arrived in Israe and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahul.

The sides discussed "U.S.-Israel relations and regional security issues," said a statement Sunday, after the delegation arrived.

Israelis Observe National Memorial Day

05/08/2011

JERUSALEM (JTA) -- With a minute-long siren and moment of silence in memory of its war dead, Israel began its observance of Memorial Day, or Yom Hazikaron.

The annual observance of Remembrance Day for Israel's Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terrorism is in memory of the nearly 23,000 men and women who have fallen in battle for the State of Israel and the some 2,500 other Israelis who have been victims of terrorist attacks.