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Photo: Knesset.tv
July 21, 2025 – Jerusalem
It was a turbulent and eventful day at the Knesset, and AIC was there every step of the way to stand up for the rights of international couples.
Explosive First Debate on Rothman’s Immigration Basic Law
AIC representatives and community members attended the first parliamentary debate on MK Rothman’s proposed Immigration Basic Law. Tensions were high from the start, as anti-immigration activists verbally attacked refugee rights advocates even before the session began. Once underway, those same activists continued to disrupt, leaving only two opposing organizations the chance to speak – while others, including AIC, were denied the floor due to lack of time.
Watch highlights from the discussion on our Facebook Page:
Still, key MKs such as Karin Elharar, Yulia Malinovsky, and former MK Mossi Raz (a long-time AIC collaborator) spoke passionately in defense of Israelis with foreign partners. Their support was no coincidence, it came as a direct result of AIC’s ongoing parliamentary work, specific briefing, and the pressure created by our community campaign. Don’t forget that just two or three years ago, most members of parliament didn’t even know our community existed. The fact that multiple MKs now take the time to speak about our rights is, in itself, a major achievement.
While MK Rothman openly targeted Israeli-Palestinian couples – who face the same gradual partner visa process – he had little to say in response to criticism about the law’s broader implications on Israeli citizens with foreign partners. Thanks to the attention this issue received in the committee, we are hopeful that the most harmful sections of the proposal will be delayed or amended to reduce the impact on international couples.
Further discussions on the proposed Immigration Basic Law are expected in the near future, and AIC will be there – just as we always are. We’ll continue fighting for our right to speak and to ensure that the voices and rights of all international couples in Israel are heard and represented.
Surprise Discussion: ID Numbers for B Visa Holders
The work doesn’t stop coming: On the same morning, a surprise discussion took place at the Foreign Workers Committee regarding the long-standing issue of identification numbers for B visa holders and other non-residents in Israel. Despite the tight schedule, AIC made sure to be there, too.
Government representatives – clearly frustrated by the repeated delays – again pushed for the assignment of Israeli ID numbers to all foreigners residing in Israel. Their reasoning was straightforward: an ID number is essential to access services efficiently and eliminate the widespread use of fake IDs.
And yet, PIBA (the Population and Immigration Authority) stood alone in opposition. Rather than proposing solutions, PIBA continued to blame other government bodies for not adapting to passport numbers and argued that assigning Israeli ID numbers would give foreigners an unwarranted “affinity” to the country. Completely ignoring all reason and the factual situation, they claimed that their new biometrics law puts an end to the multi-identity problems and that all governmental offices are to blame for not aligning with this new technology.
AIC Chairwoman, Adv. Lior Beres, addressed the committee and directly confronted PIBA’s claims. She pointed out the clear contradiction: PIBA’s own refusal to issue ID numbers is the primary reason for the chaos surrounding foreign residents’ identities. Her intervention made a strong impression, further cementing AIC’s role as a leading voice for international families.
Building Momentum
Behind the scenes, AIC also held several productive meetings with Knesset committee managers. We’ll be sharing updates on new collaborations very soon.
As always, we remain committed to ensuring that international couples are not left behind in political and bureaucratic processes. Your support, participation, and advocacy are what empower us to be present in these critical moments.
Help us keep fighting: To keep showing up at the Knesset, pushing for change, and protecting the rights of international couples in Israel – we need your help.
Donate today and stand with us in this crucial fight.
