Conversion

Almost nothing in the appearance of Yaron Avraham, a religious Jew, can provide any hint of his past life and horrible childhood experiences.

Despite his conversion not being recognized, this man persevered through so much grief in his life and deserves the chance to be buried next to people of his chosen faith.

The 63-year-old victim, whom the soldiers suspected of being a security risk, was known as David Ben Avraham by Jews who knew him, but was born Saamach Zeitoun.

The shooting incident on Thursday morning raised several questions, as the man who was shot, a Jewish convert, did not show indications of an attack.

Only seven medical circumcisions had been performed since April 2023, according to data presented to the Knesset.

The much-politicized issue of Jewish conversions has seen Israel’s left and right-wing debate the merits of halachic conversion and what should be considered a legitimate conversion for decades.

"I was thinking that once again, our leaders sold us to the Jews," he continued. "That was when I decided to go and fight for our land, which I believe was ours."

While some come with the best intentions, other organizations seem to be taking advantage of the war situation to spread the gospel in Israel.

Supreme Court President Esther Hayut said there was "no clear reason" to deny converted Jews the rights afforded by the Law of Return

The incidents came to light on Monday during a Knesset discussion about expediting the conversion process for those currently serving in the IDF.