JERUSALEM: Israel’s parliament is set to vote on a controversial piece of legislation that would define the country as the nation-state of the Jewish people.
A parliamentary committee has approved a final draft of the Nation State bill, paving the way for the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, to vote on its passage into law Wednesday.
Israel’s government says the bill, which would have constitution-like standing, enshrines the country’s Jewish character into law, but critics say it marginalizes the country’s Arab citizens, which constitute around 20 percent of the population, and threatens Israeli democracy. One clause of the bill downgrades the Arabic language from official to “special” standing.
Lawmakers removed a clause allowing the establishment of “separate communities” that was criticized as racist, replacing it with a clause encouraging “Jewish settlement.”
Israeli parliament to vote on contentious Nation State bill
Israeli parliament to vote on contentious Nation State bill
- The bill enshrines the country’s Jewish character into law
- Critics say it marginalizes the country’s Arab citizens
UAE to withdraw counter-terrorism units in Yemen, reiterates respect for Saudi sovereignty
- Abu Dhabi emphasized its commitment to maintaining close coordination with Riyadh on all matters of mutual concern
ABU DHABI: The UAE announced the withdrawal of its remaining counter-terrorism units in Yemen on Tuesday, citing recent developments and concerns over the safety and effectiveness of ongoing operations.
In a statement issued on Tuesday carried on Emirates News Agency, the Ministry of Defense said the decision was taken voluntarily and in coordination with relevant international partners, ensuring the safety of UAE personnel.
The move follows a comprehensive assessment of current conditions and aligns with the UAE’s broader commitments to regional security and stability, the statement added.
The ministry reiterated that the UAE formally ended its military presence in Yemen in 2019 after completing its agreed missions as part of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen.
Since then, its presence had been limited to specialized counter-terrorism teams operating alongside international partners.
The UAE has been part of the coalition since 2015, contributing to efforts to support legitimacy in Yemen, combat terrorist organizations, and promote security and stability in the country, the statement added.
Earlier on Tuesday, the UAE reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security and sovereignty, rejecting any actions that could threaten the Kingdom or undermine regional stability.
In a statement issued in response to recent remarks by Saudi Arabia regarding developments in Yemen, the UAE stressed that it fully respects Saudi Arabia’s national security and considers the fraternal and historical ties between the two countries a cornerstone of regional stability.
Abu Dhabi emphasized its commitment to maintaining close coordination with Riyadh on all matters of mutual concern.
The UAE said its position since the start of events in Yemen’s eastern governorates of Hadramawt and Al-Mahra has been focused on containing tensions, supporting de-escalation, and working toward understandings that preserve security, stability, and the protection of civilians, in coordination with Saudi Arabia.
Abu Dhabi categorically rejected any attempt to implicate it in tensions between Yemeni factions, condemning allegations that it pressured or directed any party to carry out military operations that threaten Saudi Arabia’s security or target its borders.
The UAE also called for recent developments in eastern Yemen to be handled responsibly to prevent escalation, urging reliance on verified facts and coordination among all relevant parties to safeguard shared interests and maintain regional security and stability.
