Divisive Issues Face Netanyahu in U.S.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived here Sunday, at the start of a three-day U.S. visit, facing questions about a long-simmering dispute over Jewish identity and stalled peace talks with the Palestinians.

Netanyahu was to address both issues in a speech Sunday night to almost 4,000 leaders of U.S. and Canadian Jews at the Council of Jewish Federations’ annual general assembly. Many are concerned about a proposed law to formalize the monopoly of Orthodox religious authorities over conversions to Judaism in Israel.

Earlier, Netanyahu canceled a scheduled news conference and did not answer reporters’ questions during a meeting with Indianapolis Mayor Stephen Goldsmith.

“He’s got a speech to prepare before an important Jewish gathering, and he asked for a timeout,” said an Israeli government representative, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Since its founding 49 years ago, Israel has counted on money from Jews in the United States and elsewhere to help pay for economic development, social services and military operations.

The proposed Israeli law on conversions marks the climax of a long-standing dispute between the Orthodox stream of Judaism, which adheres to a rigid interpretation of Jewish law, and the more liberal Conservative and Reform movements, which want to adjust Judaism to modern life.

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The Orthodox control religious affairs in Israel, such as marriages and burials, but most American Jews belong to the Reform and Conservative movements.

Netanyahu has promised that, if efforts at compromise fail, he will back the Orthodox-sponsored legislation. Orthodox parties in Israel’s parliament have the power to bring down his government.

Netanyahu arrived in Indianapolis after meetings Friday in London with Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, who has been seeking ways to advance stalled Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations. He travels to Los Angeles today.