News updates from the World Jewish Congress website – 31 January 2013

Iran: Syria’s problems rooted in Zionist meddling – YNet

31 Jan 2013 As Iran’s threats to strike at anyone that will contribute to end of Assad’s regime grow bolder, Israel is stepping up the fortification of its northern border. READ MORE »

Vatican-Israel diplomatic accord finally near completion? – Catholic World News

31 Jan 2013 A long-overdue diplomatic accord between the Vatican and Israel is finally near completion, according to a top Israeli negotiator.  READ MORE »

Report: Hamas leader agreed to two-state solution – YNet 31 Jan 2013 Jordanian sources claim King Abdullah II set to inform US President Obama of Hamas’ willingness to accept a two-state solution for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. READ MORE »

Obama names Denis McDonough new chief of staff – Jerusalem Post

31 Jan 2013 US President Barack Obama tapped Deputy National Security Adviser Denis McDonough to be his new White House chief of staff. READ MORE »

Yiddish newspaper to expand internet presence 31 Jan 2013 The New York-based Yiddsh newspaper ‘Forverts’, which started in 1897, will launch a new internet presence next week that will be updated daily.  READ MORE »

Jewish groups mourn passing of Max Kampelman – JTA

31 Jan 2013 Jewish groups mourned the passing of Max Kampelman, the top US human rights negotiator who helped bring about recognition of the plight of Soviet Jews. READ MORE »

OPINION – Josh Reinstein/Shai Hermesh: Embracing Israel’s allies – Jerusalem Post 30 Jan 2013 It is a time when members of the Israel’s government and Jewish leaders have a chance to reach out to their Christian counterparts and say thank you.  READ MORE »

Australian PM schedules elections for Yom Kippur – Times of Israel

30 Jan 2013 Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard surprised voters on Wednesday by announcing that national elections will be held September, the Jewish Day of Atonement. READ MORE »