Closing Remarks by Mr. Chen: Mr. Chalidze

Abstract

Dr. Hassouna questioned the appropriateness of my inclusion of the claims of Jews to return to Israel on the ground that they want to settle there, not to return. This question illustrates the complexity of the group claims for return and the need for clarification. Return implies a certain subjectivity and identification on the part of claimants in relation to the area to which they wish to go. Many Jews outside Israel do believe they have significant ties with Israel and identify it as their homeland. In this sense, claims of Jews to return to Israel were included in the examples of group claims. It was meant to be descriptive, not preferential.