Yashar to safeguard Law of Return, cut bureaucracy, address needs of olim in next gov't - exclusive

Gadi Eisenkot's opposition party, Yashar, intends to uphold Israel's Law of Return, including its Grandchild Clause, and streamline processes for new immigrants, according to Alex Rif, head of the party's olim integration initiative. Rif detailed the party's plan in an interview with The Jerusalem Post, emphasizing its comprehensive approach to immigrant needs ahead of the full plan's release.

“

It's very clear to us that we have to preserve the status quo. To unite the Jewish people in Israel.

Yashar, currently the largest party in the opposition bloc, aims to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government in upcoming elections. Rif highlighted that Yashar distinguishes itself by developing a detailed, specific plan for new immigrants, a focus she claims other parties lack. A central tenet of their policy is preserving the Law of Return and its provision allowing individuals with a Jewish grandparent to gain Israeli citizenship, even if not considered Jewish under religious law.

Rif stated, "It's very clear to us that we have to preserve the status quo. To unite the Jewish people in Israel." She added, "We believe that Israel has to stay open to them [all Jews]. This is Zionism. This is a declaration of independence of Israel as the center of the Jewish people." The party also advocates for allowing grandchildren of Jews, whose lineage might have been threatened historically, to immigrate.

“

We believe that Israel has to stay open to them [all Jews]. This is Zionism. This is a declaration of independence of Israel as the center of the Jewish people.

Addressing sensitive issues, Rif mentioned the party's commitment to ensuring olim not recognized as Jewish under halakha (Jewish law) can be buried in Jewish cemeteries if they wish. This issue gained prominence after the October 7 Hamas attacks, where non-Jewish soldiers were sometimes buried separately, causing distress to families. Yashar also supports civil marriage and plans to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for olim. Furthermore, they propose establishing centers abroad to aid prospective immigrants before their arrival and creating programs to help skilled olim, such as doctors and engineers, find employment in their fields.

“

I want to continue to open the door for the grandchildren of these Jews, who were almost erased, to come to Israel.