Rabbi Yose HaGalili says, "How meritorious is peace? Even in time of war Jewish law requires that one initiate discussions of peace." (Leviticus Rabbah, Tzav 9 ).
Whereas the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries are currently engaged in armed conflict with Iraq;
Whereas Judaism affirms the permissibility of war as a response to life-threatening aggression, current or anticipated;
Whereas Judaism also affirms the supreme value of peace and peacemaking;
Whereas Jewish laws of warfare mandate maximum concern for the safety of non-combatants; and
Whereas any war with Iraq may have short and long term consequences for the security and safety of other states in the region.
Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly Rabbinical Assembly commend the armed forces of the United States and its allies for their continued restraint in the use of military actions that may involve non-combatants and support coalition efforts to remove the threats posed by terrorism and weapons of mass destruction;
Be it further resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly express gratitude and strong support for the brave soldiers who have put their lives at risk in the current conflict in Iraq and extend its profound sympathies to the families of those killed, wounded, and missing in action;
Be it further resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly express gratitude and strong support for its members who are serving as military chaplains in the United States Armed Forces; and
Be it further resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly support the efforts of the United States government and its allies to articulate plans for humanitarian aid and the reconstruction of local authority.
Passed by the Rabbinical Assembly Plenum, April, 2003