December 24, 2007

Orthodox Jewish leaders from around the world are holding an annual convention in Israel.

The World Conference of Orthodox Rabbis and Community Leaders, organized by the World Zionist Organization, began its three-day conference in Jerusalem on Monday.

About 150 rabbis and leaders from 32 countries are participating in the conference, which will include meetings with Israel's chief rabbis and other notables.

Event organizers said this year's theme is "Sixty years of the State of Israel and solidarity with the residents of the South" and that participants will make a visit to Sderot to see how residents are coping with Palestinian rocket attacks.