Source: The Washington Times

Wire Service: AP

http://www.washtimes.com/national/20050706-110159-8019r.htm

On July 7, 2005 the Associated Press reported, "Jewish leaders condemned resolutions passed by the United Church of Christ that call for Israel to dismantle its security fences around Palestinian territories and for companies to use 'economic leverage' to promote peace in the Middle East. The measures, passed by the UCC's rule-making body at its annual meeting Tuesday, seek to hold Israel to a different moral standard, said Rabbi Abraham Cooper, associate dean for the Simon Wiesenthal Center. He called them 'functionally anti-Semitic.' 'The UCC has disqualified itself as a legitimate partner for a just and equitable peace in the Holy Land,' Mr. Cooper said. Peter Makari, the church's executive director for the Middle East and Europe, defended the General Synod's votes, saying the church remains committed to religious dialogue and participation among Jews, Christians and Muslims. 'These resolutions condemn all acts of violence on both sides and indicate a clear desire by the synod to end violence and promote peace,' Mr. Makari said. The synod discarded a previous resolution endorsing divestment against companies involved with Israel in favor of a proposal to use the tools of 'economic leverage' -- including divestment -- to promote peace, Mr. Makari said."