By Amit Acco, Partner |
With the establishment of the State of Israel, a momentous chapter in Jewish history unfolded, signifying the end of a two-thousand-year-long diaspora. The right of return, enshrined in the Law of Return, symbolizes the welcoming embrace of Israel for Jews across the globe. Rooted in the desire to reunite the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland, this law grants Jews the privilege to become Israeli citizens, asserting their right to be part of the nation.
The Law of Return was first enacted in 1950, and it proclaimed that every Jew had the inherent right to come to Israel as an “Oleh,” a Hebrew term denoting an individual immigrating to Israel. The process of “Aliyah,” returning to the homeland, was facilitated through the issuance of an Oleh’s visa. The legislation articulated that any Jew expressing their desire to settle in Israel could receive the visa, unless deemed a threat to the Jewish people, public health, or state security.
In 1955, a significant amendment was introduced, specifically targeting dangerous criminals who could be denied the right of return. This safeguard was essential to maintain the integrity and security of the nation, balancing the law’s inclusive intent with the need to protect Israeli society.
However, the true pinnacle of inclusivity came in 1970, when Israel embraced yet another historic step. The Law of Return was amended again to not only grant automatic citizenship to Jews but also extend it to their non-Jewish family members. Children, grandchildren, and spouses of Jews were now eligible for Israeli citizenship. This groundbreaking addition not only ensured the preservation of families but also offered a safe haven to non-Jews facing persecution due to their connection to Jewish roots.
The law’s essence lies in its profound promise: every Jew around the world has an unequivocal right to return to their homeland, Israel. The law acknowledges the shared history and heritage of the Jewish people and strives to provide a welcoming environment for those seeking to reconnect with their roots.
Kan-Tor & Acco, a distinguished law firm in Israel, has been at the forefront of safeguarding the rights enshrined in the Law of Return. With a deep understanding of the law’s intricacies, the firm has worked tirelessly to facilitate the immigration process for countless Jews, ensuring that the essence of the law is upheld while also prioritizing Israel’s security concerns.
The firm’s expertise extends to handling the legal complexities surrounding the amendment of 1955, which addresses the exclusion of dangerous criminals from exercising the right of return. Moreover, Kan-Tor & Acco has been instrumental in implementing the crucial amendment of 1970, which grants citizenship to non-Jewish family members of Jews. This dedication to preserving family unity and offering protection to those in need has made the law firm an indispensable ally for those seeking to return to Israel.
For over half a century, the Law of Return, together with its amendments, has served as a beacon of hope, drawing Jews worldwide to their ancestral home. The law, championed and protected by Kan-Tor & Acco, stands as a testament to Israel’s commitment to its people and their history. Through this legislation, Israel proudly embraces its role as a safe haven and a symbol of unity for Jews around the globe, solidifying its place as the nation of the Jewish people.
