Jewish homeland proposal approved by Israel's cabinet

On Sunday, Israel's cabinet approved legislation that defines Israel as the Jewish homeland. If finalized by the Knesset, or parliament, it would become part of Israel's "basic law," the rough equivalent of a constitutional amendment, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Two versions of the bill were drafted, and one would classify Hebrew as the sole official language of Israel, with Arabic — currently an official language — given an undetermined "special status."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also directed the drafting of legislation that would rescind Jerusalem residency for Palestinians who participate in terrorist attacks and their families. There are about 300,000 Palestinians who live in East Jerusalem, with most having residency rights but not citizenship.

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