Angela Merkel. First German leader to address Jewish community’s annual council meeting
Photo:Reuters
Merkel addresses Jewish Council
German chancellor reassures Jews that government will protect their religious rights, in particular right to practice rituals integral to their faith
VIDEO – Chancellor Angela Merkel has become the first German leader to address the Jewish community’s annual council meeting, reassuring members that the government would protect their religious rights, in particular the right to practice rituals integral to their faith.
Video courtesy of jn1.tv
Merkel’s speech comes after what the Jewish Council president called a "summer of discontent" following a controversial court ruling in the western city of Cologne that equated ritual circumcision – practiced in both Judaism and Islam – to grievous bodily harm.
The controversial bill was rescinded after sparking widespread condemnation in both Jewish and Muslim circles. It has been replaced by a new law which protects the ancient practice providing it be carried out professionally and with the minimum amount of pain to the child.
The German chancellor also expressed her country’s support for the Jewish state following Israel’s recent conflict with Gaza Strip terrorists.
