MEDIA RELEASES

AIJAC expresses regret over cancellation of asylum-seeker deal in Israel, and calls for a compassionate policy going forward

April 4, 2018

AIJAC expresses regret over cancellation of asylum-seeker deal in Israel

Media Release

The Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council today expressed its regret over the cancellation of the arrangement between the State of Israel and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHRC) to regulate the standing of migrants seeking refugee status in Israel. The deal, announced on Monday, was to involve facilitating resettlement for some African asylum-seekers in Western countries and the absorption of others.

“This proposal appeared to be a constructive and creative measure to address a complex and vexed issue, and we call on the Government of Israel to expeditiously review its disappointing decision and devise a way to achieve a similarly responsible and effective policy outcome,” Mark Leibler, National Chairman of AIJAC, said today.

“Many countries are confronted with the challenge of properly protecting refugees while maintaining appropriate migration programs for others who are not refugees, and it was encouraging to see Israel and the UNHCR work towards addressing the situation in Israel”, Mr Leibler added.

“Within Israel, and amongst those who care passionately about its future, this issue has prompted strong emotions. While PM Netanyahu has shelved the matter, it is to be hoped that a speedy reconsideration will lead to a resolution, compassionate and considerate for both asylum-seekers and Israeli citizens, which is also respectful of the rule of law,” Dr Colin Rubenstein, Executive Director of AIJAC, concluded.

For additional information, contact AIJAC on (03)-9681-6660.

 

Tags:

RELATED ARTICLES

RECENT POSTS

Moreton candidate Remah Naji (centre) with Queensland-based Federal Greens MPs (left to right) Max Chandler-Mather, Senator Larissa Waters, Stephen Bates and Elizabeth Watson-Brown (Image: Instagram)

Green extremes

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (left) and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton shake hands ahead of the second leaders’ debate of the 2025 federal election campaign at the ABC Studios in Parramatta, Sydney, Wednesday, April 16, 2025 (Image: AAP/ ABC Pool)

Editorial: After three momentous years

LiberalVLabor 1200x600

The Choice 2025

Image: Wikimedia Commons

AIJAC expresses condolences on the passing of Pope Francis

Screenshot 2025 04 09 At 12.12.01 PM

Hamas sees live Israeli hostages as their “ultimate insurance policy”: Ehud Yaari on Sky News

SORT BY TOPICS