Israel may force non-Jewish citizens to vow loyalty to state

LONDON - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has backed a loyalty bill that would force new non-Jewish citizens of Israel to pledge allegiance to a “Jewish and democratic state”.

Critics of the bill, which will primarily affect Palestinians marrying Israelis, say it will inflame Arab and international opinion against Israel at a time when it is already facing isolation.

The Independent, however, quoted Netanyahu, as saying that it was “fitting” that those seeking citizenship should pledge loyalty to the Jewish state.

“Israel is the Jewish people’s homeland. It is so in its essence, in its government, its symbols, holidays and language, and that should be reflected by its Citizenship Act,” Netanyahu said in a statement.

Netanyahu’s right-leaning Cabinet is expected to back the bill when it comes for the vote on Sunday.

It will then go up before the Knesset, Israel’s parliament. It will not apply to Jews seeking citizenship under the Law of Return. (ANI)