Commissioner Moshe Karadi
Inspector General of the Israel Police

Sir:

Messianic Jewish congregations in the United States and around the world are fervent supporters of the state of Israel. We appreciate your vital work in ensuring the security and safety of Israelis and visitors to the Land. As part of our support for Israel, we brought a solidarity tour of 300 participants to Israel in 2003, and sponsor smaller tours each year. On our tours, we have always been impressed by the professionalism and availability of Israel Police officers
In recent months, we have heard numerous reports of harassment of our fellow Messianic Jews and supporters in Arad at the hands of Gur haredi extremists. We are particularly troubled by the apparent lack of police response to what is clearly abusive and threatening behavior.

Now we are also receiving reports of similar harassment in Beersheva that occurred last Shabbat. Orthodox extremists entered private property, where Messianic Jews were congregating, to damage equipment and assault men, women, and children. Again, police response appears to have been minimal.
Please use your office to ensure proper protection for Israelis who are simply exercising their religious freedom as expressed in the Proclamation of Independence, and to defend the hard-earned reputation of the Israel Police. Thank you in advance for your time and attention to this urgent matter.