Rabbi Berger -
A short time ago you wrote passionately about to positive impact of Israel study for high school graduates, and argued that even in the face of the possibility of physical harm parents should continue to send their children to learn there.
While physical harm is always a concern, recent developments in Israel are even more worrying to me. The arrest of religious suspects in the Duma murders, the "wedding video" that shows support for such violent acts and even the accusations that the Shin Bet is torturing those suspects are all bound to have negative effects on young, impressionable students who come to Israel.
In short, there are many messages that young people may be getting in Israeli yeshivot that are anathema to the values of the American modern Orthodox community. How do you respond to a parent who expresses concern about the spiritual dangers of sending their children to Israel?
Sasson
