3 Fall 2026 Israel is engaged in a just war of survival, a war it did not choose but was forced to fight. Yet, as I have written before, even in war there are rules that must be respected. Where those rules are breached, the breaches must be investigated and, where appropriate, those responsible must be brought to justice. Sadly, irresponsible statements by politicians — whether explicit or implicit — calling for destruction, starvation or expulsion, cause enormous damage to Israel’s case, even when none of these things is taking place on the ground. Likewise, the conduct of Jewish vandals in Judea and Samaria, coupled with what is perceived as inadequate law enforcement by the Government of Israel, seriously undermines the legitimacy of the Settler communities in those areas and, more broadly, Israel’s efforts to combat Palestinian terrorism there. Beyond the Biblical commandment to love the stranger, the Government of Israel has a duty to enforce both domestic and international law, to protect the local population, and to investigate and prosecute those who break the law. In November 2026, the 19th Congress of the IJL will take place in Jerusalem, in the presence of the President of the State of Israel, Mr. Isaac Herzog, and many other distinguished guests. The Congress and its accompanying conference will address the core concerns of the organization. We therefore warmly invite Jewish lawyers in Israel and throughout the Diaspora to join us. I take this opportunity to wish all our members and readers a blessed New Year — a year of health, tranquillity and peace. October 2026
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