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United Jewish Appeal, New York, NY, June 8, 1970
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
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The original documents are located in Box D29, folder "United Jewish Appeal, New York,
NY, June 8, 1970" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at
the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box D29 of The Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
UNITED JEWISH APPEAL, NEW YORK CITY,
NEW YORK, MONDAY, JUNE 8, 1970.
10.30 A.M.
THE REASON FOR THIS MEETING IS
OBVIOUS. THIS IS A TIME FOR ACTION.
WE
HAVE HEARD ENOUGH RHETORIC
CHILDREN ARE DYING IN ISRAEL.
THEY ARE BEING KILLED BY SOVIET ROCKETS
IN THE HANDS OF ARABS WHO ARE EMULATING
THE VIET CONG AND THE COMMUNISTS OF
NORTH VIETNAM.
WHAT IS MY JUSTIFICATION FOR
STATING THAT THE ARAB EXTREMISTS ARE
ADOPTING VIET CONG TERRORIST TACTICS.
I CALL YOUR ATTENTION TO A RECENT VISIT
TO HANOI BY A DELEGATION REPRESENTING THE
TOP LEADERSHIP OF THE AL FATAH ARAB
GUERRILLA MOVEMENT. THE ARABS WERE
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
INVITED BY GEN. GIAP, THE MILITARY LEADER
-2-
OF NORTH VIETNAM.
A TEXT OF THE MINUTES OF THE
MEETING WAS SUBSEQUENTLY PUBLISHED BY THE
ARABS AND THE NORTH VIETNAMESE. GEN. GIAP
TOLD THE ARABS, "WE FIGHT TOGETHER;" AND
HE ADDED, "YOU ARE RIGHT TO CLEAR THE
GROUND OF ITS ISRAELI FORCES AND BLOW UP
THEIR HOUSES AND LIQUIDATE THEIR PRESENCE."
THAT WAS HANOI' S ADVICE TO THE ARABS.
THE HANOI MEETING WAS FOLLOWED
BY THE RETURN OF THE ARAB GUERRILLA
LEADERS TO THE MIDDLE EAST AND SOME VERY
TERRIBLE EVENTS. A SCHOOL BUS WAS
AMBUSHED. ROCKETS WERE FIRED INTO SCHOOL
HOUSES. MANY CHILDREN WERE KILLED.
OTHERS LAY MAIMED IN HOSPITALS.
GEN. GIAP EQUATED THE ISRAELIS
WITH THE AMERICANS. HE WANTED TOTAL
DEFEAT IMPOSED UPON BOTH. HE PREDICTED
THAT "THE PALESTINIAN REVOLUTION WILL
-3-
TRIUMPH LIKE THE VIETNAMESE REVOLUTION."
ARAFAT, THE LEADER OF THE
ROCKETEERS WHO AIM AT ISRAELI SCHOOL
HOUSES, TOLD HIS VIETNAMESE COMMUNIST
HOSTS THAT THE ARABS HAD "BENEFITTED A
GREAT DEAL FROM THE TACTICS OF CHAIRMAN
HO CHI MINH."
GEN. GIAP VOICED PLEASURE THAT
ARAB "GUERRILLA WARFARE IS DEVELOPING AND
YOU HAVE SCORED BIG VICTORIES."
GEN. GIAP IS PRAISED BY A FEW
OF OUR AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS FOR
HIS SO-CALLED HEROISM. HE NOW TELLS THE
ARABS THAT "ANY METHOD WHICH CAN ACHIEVE
YOUR VICTORY IS A GOOD METHOD." "WE FIGHT
WITH MILITARY MEANS. THIS IS THE MAIN FORM
OF FIGHTING, BUT SIMULTANEOUSLY WE FIGHT
BY POLITICAL MEANS." HE ADDED THAT
GRALD FORD LIBRARY
"CHAIRMAN HO CHI MINH HAS SAID: 'WE MUST
DEPEND FIRST ON OUR OWN POWER AND THEN ON
-4-
THE SUPPORT AND THE BACKING OF THE
PROGRESSIVE FORCES IN THE WORLD "
GEN. GIAP WENT ON TO EXPRESS
UNQUALIFIED ADMIRATION FOR "THE FIGHTING
SPIRIT OF THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE AND THE
ARAB PEOPLE, AND OUR UNRESERVED SUPPORT
FOR YOUR STRUGGLE." HE VOICED CONFIDENCE
THAT THE ARABS WOULD DESTROY ISRAEL IN THE
SO-CALLED "LIBERATION STRUGGLE."
I COULD NOT HELP BUT THINK OF
THE KILLING OF ISRAELI CHILDREN WHEN THE
PRESIDENT ANNOUNCED THE CAPTURE OF SO MUCH
ENEMY WEAPONRY IN CAMBODIA. I COULD NOT
HELP BUT THINK THAT A RUSSIAN-MADE OR
CHINESE-MADE ROCKET OR MINE OR MORTAR OR
ARTILLERY PIECE CAPTURED BY OUR TROOPS
DIMINISHES THE STOCKPILES FROM WHICH THE
COMMUNISTS SUPPLY THE RADICAL ARAB FORCES.
WHEN RUSSIA AND CHINA DIG INTO THEIR
ARMS STOCKPILES TO MAKE UP HANOI'S WEAPON
-5-
LOSSES, THEY OBVIOUSLY WILL HAVE FEWER
NEW ARMS TO SEND TO THE ARABS. IF THE
LIFE OF A SINGLE ISRAELI CHILD IS SPARED,
HOWEVER INDIRECTLY, BY THE IMPACT WE HAVE
HAD UPON COMMUNIST ARMS STOCKPILES AND
REPLACEMENT SHIPMENTS TO VARIOUS TERRORISTS
FORCES OF THE WORLD, I WOULD BE EVEN MORE
APPRECIATIVE OF THE HEROISM OF OUR BRAVE
SOLDIERS.
LET ME SAY A WORD ABOUT THE WAR
IN VIETNAM AND THE PACIFIST-ISOLATIONIST
SENTIMENT IN OUR NATION TODAY. THERE IS
A GRAVE DANGER INHERENT IN THE AMENDMENTS
PENDING BEFORE THE SENATE TO RESTRICT THE
ABILITY OF OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE TO RESPOND
TO WORLDWIDE COMMUNIST THREATS AND
INVOLVEMENTS. THERE ARE SOME WHO WOULD
BAR THE USE OF AMERICAN FORCES UNLESS
FORD LIBRARY
THERE IS A DIRECT ENEMY ATTACK ON AMERICAN
UNITS OR THE TERRITORY OF THE UNITED STATES.
-6-
POSSIBLE AGGRESSORS WOULD BE
ASSURED, UNDER SOME NEW CONCEPTS ADVANCED
IN CONGRESS -- ASSURED THAT THE UNITED
STATES WOULD NEVER USE ITS FORCES UNDER
SPECIFIED CIRCUMSTANCES AND THAT WE WOULD
BE INHIBITED, RESTRICTED, AND RESTRAINED.
I HAVE NOT HEARD OF THE SOVIET UNION
ENACTING ANY SUCH AMENDMENTS. I HAVE
HEARD OF THEM PUSHING DANGEROUSLY INTO
THE MIDDLE EAST AND LANDING MISSILE
TROOPS AND AIR SQUADRONS IN EGYPT.
WE MUST NOT CIRCUMSCRIBE THE
DIPLOMATIC INFLUENCE OF THE PRESIDENT IN
SEEKING TO DETER AGGRESSION. LET US
CONSIDER THE SOVIET MILITARY MOVEMENT
INTO EGYPT, THE ACTUAL PRESENCE OF
COMBAT-READY RUSSIAN FORCES ON THE
CONTINENT OF AFRICA, A NEW "AFRIKA CORPS"
ONLY A QUARTER-CENTURY AFTER THE DEFEAT
OF THE GERMAN NAZIS OF ROMMEL IN NORTH
-7-
AFRICA. THERE ARE GRIM IMPLICATIONS FOR
ISRAEL. BUT I ALSO DISCERN A SITUATION
VITALLY AFFECTING THE NATIONAL SECURITY
OF THE UNITED STATES.
JUST AS WE HAVE NOT WRITTEN OFF
ISRAEL, WE HAVE NOT WRITTEN OFF THE
MIDDLE EAST. EVEN THOUGH WE ARE STILL
INVOLVED IN SOUTHEAST ASIA, EVEN THOUGH
AN ANTI-MILITARY MOOD EXISTS AT HOME,
EVEN THOUGH THERE IS DIVISION AMONG OUR
PEOPLE -- LET THE COMMUNISTS NOT
MISCALCULATE. LET THEM NOT PUSH US TOO HARD.
THE COMMUNISTS MAY LEARN THAT
THEY HAVE NEITHER ISOLATED NOR
NEUTRALIZED THE UNITED STATES. IN THE
MIDDLE EAST, BY GIVING MILITARY SUPPORT
TO THE ARAB CAUSE, MOSCOW IS SEEKING TO
REPLACE THE UNITED STATES AS THE DOMINANT
POWER IN THE MEDITERRANEAN. MOSCOW HAS
DEMANDED THAT THE UNITED STATES SIXTH FLEET
-8-
LEAVE THE MEDITERRANEAN. WE SHOULD
IMMEDIATELY MOVE TO STRENGTHEN OUR FLEET.
THAT IS THE BEST ANSWER.
THE SOVIET GAME IN EGYPT FAR
TRANSCENDS THE ARAB-ISRAELI CONFLICT. THE
RUSSIANS ARE FISHING IN THOSE TROUBLED
WATERS TO UNDERMINE THE SOUTHERN FLANK OF
NATO, DOMINATE THE MEDITERRANEAN, AND
SPREAD COMMUNIST INFLUENCE FROM THE INDIAN
OCEAN TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC.
LET ME STATE ONE CONVICTION
VERY SIMPLY: I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT THE
FATE OF ISRAEL IS LINKED WITH THE NATIONAL
SECURITY OF THE UNITED STATES.
AMERICANS OF JEWISH FAITH FEEL
VERY PERSONAL AND HUMAN AND UNDERSTANDABLE
TIES WITH THE STATE OF ISRAEL. BUT
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
MILLIONS OF OTHER AMERICANS ALSO CAN
IDENTIFY WITH THE ISRAELIS AND WITH THEIR
DEDICATION TO FREEDOM AND SURVIVAL AS A
-9-
NATION. THERE ARE SOME VERY INSTRUCTIVE
LESSONS THAT AMERICANS OF ALL FAITHS COULD
LEARN FROM THE ISRAELIS.
BUT I DID NOT COME HERE TODAY TO
COMPLIMENT THE ISRAELIS. THEIR COURAGE
PROVIDES ITS OWN COMMENTARY. I CAME TO
ASSURE YOU THAT ACTIONS ARE BEING TAKEN.
I AM FREE TO SPEAK ONLY OF MY OWN
INITIATIVE AND MY OWN ACTION. TODAY I CAN
DISCLOSE THAT ON JUNE 2 I SENT A PERSONAL
LETTER TO PRESIDENT NIXON.
I STATED THAT IN VIEW OF THE
DANGEROUS AND AGGRESSIVE ESCALATION OF
THE CRISIS APPARENT IN THE INTRUSION OF
SOVIET COMBAT PILOTS AND MISSILE
BATTALIONS INTO EGYPT, A NEW SENSE OF
URGENCY HAS DEVELOPED AMONG MEMBERS OF
THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES REGARDING
THE NECESSITY FOR A from MEASURED AMERICAN
GERALD
RESPONSE.
-10-
IT WAS MY OWN BELIEF, SHARED BY
A MAJORITY OF MY COLLEAGUES, THAT THE TIME
HAD COME FOR THE UNITED STATES TO APPROVE
THE SALE OF THE ADDITIONAL PHANTOM AND
SKYHAWK AIRCRAFT SOUGHT BY ISRAEL.
THE FAILURE TO PROVIDE THESE
JETS MAY HAVE DISASTROUS RESULTS. MY
LETTER POINTED OUT THAT THE SOVIET UNION
HAS IGNORED OUR RESTRAINT AND INCREASED ITS
OWN INVOLVEMENT IN A VOLATILE SITUATION.
WE MUST REDRESS THE BALANCE BY
PROVIDING THE JETS TO ISRAEL. THIS WOULD
REASSURE OUR FRIENDS AND PREVENT OUR
ENEMIES FROM MISCALCULATING.
IF WE DISPLAY INHIBITION IN THE
face
FACT OF SOVIET MILITARY PENETRATION, THE
RUSSIANS WILL PRESS MORE VIGOROUSLY THEIR
DRIVE TO PENETRATE THE MIDDLE EAST AND
MEDITERRANEAN. WE COULD ANTICIPATE
SERALD LIBRARY A.FORD
GREATER ARAB BELLIGERENCE THROUGH
-11-
INCREASED COMMITMENT OF CONVENTIONAL
AND GUERRILLA FORCES.
THE PRESIDENT IS AWARE THAT AN
INTOLERABLE SITUATION WILL DEVELOP IF
THE SOVIET AIR FORCE PROVIDES EGYPT WITH
A PRIVILEGED SANCTUARY FROM WHICH TO SALLY
FORTH ACROSS THE SUEZ CANAL WITH COMMANDO
RAIDS, AIR RAIDS, ARTILLERY BARRAGES, AND
AMPHIBIOUS ATTACKS. SOVIET PLANES AND
PILOTS INTRUDING ON THE UNITED NATIONS
CEASE FIRE ZONE ALONG THE SUEZ CANAL ADD
A DANGEROUS NEW DIMENSION TO THE MIDDLE
EAST CONFLICT.
THERE ARE COMPELLING REASONS TO
BOLSTER ISRAEL IN SUCH MANNER AS TO MAKE
THE RUSSIANS THINK TWICE BEFORE TACKLING
THE VALIANT ISRAELI AIR FORCE. I ALSO AM
CONVINCED THERE IS DANGER OF A MOOD OF
DESPERATION IN ISRAEL, BORN OF A SENSE OF
LIBRARY
ABANDONMENT, THAT MIGHT LEAD THE ISRAELIS
-12-
TO LAUNCH PRE-EMPTIVE OPERATIONS THAT COULD
BRING ABOUT OPEN HOSTILITIES WITH SOVIET
MILITARY FORCES.
THE PRESIDENT IS AWARE THAT,
UNLIKE SOME OTHER NATIONS MENACED BY
COMMUNISM, ISRAEL HAS NOT ASKED FOR
AMERICAN MANPOWER. IF THE ISRAELIS ARE
WILLING TO STAND UP FOR THEIR OWN
SURVIVAL, WE MUST AT LEAST PROVIDE THE
NECESSARY ARMS..
IT WAS MY FEELING THAT ASSURANCE
OF CONTINUITY IN THE SUPPLY OF PHANTOM JETS
AND OTHER ARMS
TO ISRAEL WAS IN KEEPING
WITH THE PRESIDENT'S COURAGEOUS PUBLIC
REMARKS OF APRIL 30 ON THE CAMBODIAN
SITUATION. THE CHIPS ARE DOWN IN THE
MIDDLE EAST. WE MUST ACT TO RETAIN
CREDIBILITY AMONG FRIENDS AND FOES. WE MUST
DETER THE SOVIET UNION FROM ITS NEW
BRINKMANSHIP WHICH SEEKS TO EXPLOIT OUR
-13-
OUR PRESENT CONCERNS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA.
WE MUST LET THE RUSSIANS KNOW THAT
NEO-ISOLATIONISM AND PACIFICISM ARE NOT
YET SUCH AMERICANS THAT COMMUNISM
HAS OUR INVITATION TO SUBJUGATE THE FREE
WORLD.
IT WOULD BE A VERY TIMELY MOVE
FOR THE PRESIDENT NOT ONLY TO APPROVE
THE PENDING ARMS LIST FOR ISRAEL BUT ALSO
Blue Robbon
TO SEND A SPECIAL COMMISSION MADE UP OF
APPROPRIATE PERSONS TO THE MIDDLE EAST
TO ASSESS THE DEVELOPING DANGER CREATED
BY THE SOVIET ESCALATION. THE COMMISSION
SHOULD INCLUDE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS,
MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, AND PERSONS FROM
OUTSIDE THE GOVERNMENT. IT WOULD SUGGEST
TO THE RUSSIANS THE GRAVITY OF OUR CONCERN.
ISRAELI DEFENSE MINISTER DAYAN
DR.FORD
RECENTLY ANNOUNCED THAT ISRAEL HAD HALTED
LIBRARY
DEEP PENETRATION RAIDS INTO EGYPT TO AVOID
-14-
POSSIBLE CLASHED WITH SOVIET FORCES. HE
ASSERTED READINESS TO RE-ESTABLISH AN
UNCONDITIONAL AND UNLIMITED CEASE-FIRE.
THE ONLY RESPONSE FROM THE ARABS
HAS BEEN A DRASTIC INCREASE IN ATTACKS
AS THE RUSSIANS SCREEN EGYPT WITH A
PROTECTIVE UMBRELLA. THE COMMITMENT OF
RUSSIAN MILITARY FORCES CANNOT BE
JUSTIFIED ON GROUNDS OF DEFENSE OF EGYPT.
RUSSIAN INVOLVEMENT IS LINKED WITH THE
MOUNTING ARAB CAMPAIGN TO LIQUIDATE
ISRAEL. THE COMMITMENT OF RUSSIAN
MILITARY FORCES IS A NEGATION OF SOVIET
PRETENSIONS TO PEACE-MAKING. PILOTS
TROOPS, AND MISSILES ARE NO WAY TO REDUCE
TENSIONS
OUR GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED ON
MARCH 23 THAT ADDITIONAL JET suspended SALES TO
ISRAEL WOULD BE TEMPORARILY HALTED. THE
LIBRARY
STATE DEPARTMENT INDICATED THAT THIS
-15-
RESTRAINT WAS REALLY A SIGNAL TO MOSCOW
THAT THE UNITED STATES WANTED TO COOL DOWN
THE ARMS RACE; WE WERE TAKING THE FIRST
STEP SO THAT THE RUSSIANS WOULD KNOW OUR
PEACEFUL INTENTIONS AND SIMILARLY EXERCISE
RESTRAINT. WE ARE NOW WELL AWARE OF THE
SOVIET RESPONSE.
WE ARE TRYING TO END ONE WAR
UNDER CONDITIONS OF PEACE WITH HONOR.
MOSCOW IS CYNICALLY ESCALATING ANOTHER
WAR, INTRODUCING NEW ELEMENTS AND
BRINGING TERRIBLE RISKS OF EXPANSION OF
AN ALREADY TRAGIC CONFLICT.
WE CANNOT PERMIT A SITUATION
IN WHICH THE RUSSIANS WOULD COVER BY
THEIR OWN MILITARY FORCES THE UNRELENTING
WAR OF ATTRITION BY THE ARABS AGAINST
ISRAEL. THE RUSSIAN MILITARY POWER PLAY
IS A MATTER OF GRAVE CONCERN. I USE THE
WORDS "GRAVE CONCERN" WITH CAREFUL
-16-
DELIBERATION. PRESIDENT NIXON STATED ON
FEBRUARY 18 THAT "THE UNITED STATES WOULD
VIEW ANY EFFORT BY THE SOVIET UNION TO
SEEK PREDOMINANCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST AS A
MATTER OF GRAVE CONCERN." HE WARNED
AGAINST THE EXPLOITATION OF A LOCAL CONFLICT
BY AN OUTSIDE POWER FOR ITS OWN ADVANTAGE.
HE PLEDGED ARMS TO FRIENDLY STATES AS THE
NEED ARISES. WE DELAYED ACTION TO
OBTAIN A FIRST-HAND EXPLANATION FROM THE
RUSSIANS OF THEIR INTENTIONS IN EGYPT.
THE EXPLANATION WAS UNSATISFACTORY.
THE SO-CALLED PEACE MOVEMENTS
OF THE WORLD ARE STILL CRYING HYSTERICALLY
FOR U.S. WITHDRAWAL FROM INDO-CHINA
ALTHOUGH WE ARE ALREADY IN THE PROCESS OF
WITHDRAWAL. I HAVE NOT YET HEARD THESE
MOVEMENTS SAY ANYTHING ABOUT THE WITHDRAWAL
OF SOVIET TROOPS FROM THE ARAB-ISRAELI
BATTLE FRONT. SINCE WHEN ARE RUSSIAN
FORD & LIBRARY SERVID
-17-
TROOPS PURELY DEFENSIVE WHILE AMERICANS
ARE PURELY AGGRESSIVE?
I PLACE GREAT EMPHASIS ON THE
NEED FOR FAST ACTION TO STRENGTHEN THE
ISRAELI AIR FORCE. A STRONG AIRPOWER
FACTOR WILL ALLOW ISRAEL TO MAINTAIN THAT
NATION'S DEFENSE WITHOUT THE NEED FOR
INVOLVEMENT OF AMERICAN PERSONNEL.
IF WE ALLOW THE SOVIET UNION,
THROUGH BRUTAL APPLICATION OF ITS OWN
MILITARY FORCES, TO CRUSH ISRAEL, IT WOULD
MEAN THE END OF HOPE FOR ALL FREE NATIONS
OF THE MEDITERRANEAN AND EVEN WESTERN
EUROPE. III WOULD MEAN THE END OF THE
UNITED STATES AS A SYMBOL OF FREEDOM
ISRAEL IS AN ASSET TO AMERICA,
NOT A LIABILITY. THE RUSSIAN TARGET TODAY
IS THE AIRCRAFT OF ISRAEL. TOMORROW THE
TARGET OF THE NEW SOVIET EGYPTIAN AIR
BASES MAY BE THE U.S. SIXTH FLEET. MOSCOW
-18-
IS CONVERTING EGYPT INTO AN UNSINKABLE
AIRCRAFT CARRIER.
PRESIDENT NIXON UNDERSTANDS THE
NEED TO PRESERVE FREEDOM IN THE MIDDLE
EAST. HE POINTED OUT THAT ISRAEL) S ENEMIES
CAN AFFORD TO FIGHT A WAR AND LOSE. THEY
CAN COME BACK TO FIGHT AGAIN. BUT ISRAEL
CANNOT AFFORD TO LOSE EVEN ONCE.
PRESIDENT NIXON SAID, "AMERICA KNOWS THAT,
AND AMERICA IS DETERMINED THAT ISRAEL IS
HERE IN THE FAMILY OF NATIONS TO STAY."
THE REAL INTERESTS OF ARABS AND
ISRAELIS, OF RUSSIANS AND AMERICANS,
REQUIRE PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE. THE UNITED
STATES IS COMMITTED TO PEACEFUL AND
HONORABLE DEALINGS WITH ALL MEN, AT HOME
AND ABROAD. WE ARE DOING EVERYTHING WE
CAN AS MEN OF CONSCIENCE AND INTEGRITY,
TO PROMOTE PEACE.
AND IN ISRAEL, THAT LAND WHERE
-19-
THE PROPHETS DREAMED THAT NATION SHOULD NOT
LIFT UP SWORD AGAINST NATION, LET THERE
BE PEACE.
FOR ISRAEL, A NATION OF PEOPLE
WHOSE SUFFERING MERITS A LIFE MORE CREATIVE
THAN PERPETUAL SERVICE IN AN ARMED CAMP,
LET THERE BE PEACE. FOR THE ARABS,
WHOSE POVERTY AND FRUSTRATION REQUIRE
SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS AND A DECENT LIFE
RATHER THAN THE ENDLESS PURCHASE OF JETS
AND GUNS, LET THERE BE PEACE.
ISRAEL COULD BE A LIGHT UNTO THE
NATIONS OF THAT REGION IF THE ARABS WOULD
ACCEPT FELLOW HUMAN BEINGS OF THE JEWISH
FAITH AS ENTITLED TO NATIONHOOD AS ANY
OTHER PEOPLE. THE GENIUS AND PRODUCTIVITY
OF THE ISRAELIS COULD HELP OTHERS MAKE
THEIR DESERTS BLOSSOM.
INSTEAD OF THE CRADLE OF
BERALD R.FORD VIBRARY
CIVILIZATION BECOMING ITS GRAVE, LET THE
-20-
CRADLE OF CIVILIZATION GIVE RISE TO TWO
PEOPLES, ARAB AND JEWISH, EACH IN THEIR
OWN COUNTRIES, WITH COMMERCE AND TRAVEL
FLOWING ACROSS PEACEFUL BORDERS, AND WITH
A NEW SENSE OF MUTUAL RESPECT IN KEEPING
WITH OUR DREAM OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF MAN
UNDER THE FATHERHOOD OF GOD.
I WANT TO ADD A SPECIAL AND VERY
PERSONAL WORD TO THIS AUDIENCE. MANY OF
YOU HAVE DEVOTED YOUR LIVES TO THE
ISRAELI CAUSE. YOU HAVE SEEN IN ISRAEL A
REDEMPTION OF FREEDOM AND HUMAN DIGNITY,
THE REBIRTH OF A PEOPLE. BUT WE ARE NOW
WITNESSING PAINFUL DAYS, TRAGIC DAYS, IN
WHICH THE POWERS AND POLITICAL TRENDS AND
PRESSURES OF THE WORLD APPEAR TO BE
CONVERGING ON THE MIDDLE EAST.
ISRAEL WAS REBORN IN BLOOD AND
FIRE. ISRAEL IS TODAY STRUGGLING IN AN
ORDEAL OF BLOOD AND FIRE. BUT THIS TIME
-21-
IT IS DIFFERENT. THE STATE OF ISRAEL HAS
PROVED ITS METTLE. ISRAEL IS A NATION
AMONG THE NATIONS.
YOU CAN TAKE PRIDE, AS DEDICATED
SUPPORTERS OF ISRAEL, IN THE NATION YOU
HAVE HELPED BUILD. BUT THE WATCHMAN OF
ISRAEL DOES NOT SLEEP.
TRYING DAYS LIE AHEAD. YET, IN
YOUR HEART OF HEARTS, YOU CAN DRAW FAITH
AND SUSTENANCE AND REASSURANCE FROM ONE
FACT: THIS IS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
THIS IS. OUR COUNTRY AND WE, JEWS AND
NON-JEWS, PEOPLES OF ALL PARTS OF THIS
COUNTRY, THE SILENT AMERICANS AND THE
ARTICULATE AMERICANS, WILL NOT LET ISRAEL
DOWN.
-- END --
Destribution 10 copies Mr. Ford
m office Copy
REMARKS BY REP. GERALD R. FORD, R-MICH.
REPUBLICAN LEADER, U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
BEFORE THE UNITED JEWISH APPEAL
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK
JUNE 8, 1970
FOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY AT 10:30 a.m.
The reason for this meeting is obvious. This is a time for action. We
have heard enough rhetoric.
Children are dying in Israel. They are being killed by Soviet rockets in
the hands of Arabs who are emulating the Viet Cong and the Communists of North
Vietnam.
What is my justification for stating that the Arab extremists are adopting
Viet Cong terrorist tactics? I call your attention to a recent visit to Hanoi by
a delegation representing the top leadership of the Al Fatah Arab guerrilla
movement. The Arabs were invited by Gen. Giap, the military leader of North
Vietnam.
A text of the minutes of the meeting was subsequently published by the
Arabs and the North Vietnamese. Gen. Giap told the Arabs, "We fight together;"
and he added, "You are right to clear the ground of its Israeli forces and blow up
their houses and liquidate their presence." That was Hanoi's advice to the Arabs.
The Hanoi meeting was followed by the return of the Arab guerrilla leaders
to the Middle East and some very terrible events. A school bus was ambushed.
Rockets were fired into school houses. Many children were killed. Others lay
maimed in hospitals.
Gen. Giap equated the Israelis with the Americans. He wanted total defeat
imposed upon both. He predicted that "the Palestinian revolution will triumph
like the Vietnamese revolution."
Arafat, the leader of the rocketeers who aim at Israeli school houses, told
his Vietnamese Communist hosts that the Arabs had "benefitted a great deal from
the tactics of Chairman Ho Chi Minh."
Gen. Giap voiced pleasure that Arab "guerrilla warfare is developing and
you have scored big victories."
Gen Giap is praised by a few of our American university professors for his
so-called heroism. He now tells the Arabs that "any method which can achieve your
(more)
-2-
victory is a good method. % "We fight with military means. This is the main form
of fighting, but simultaneously we fight by political means." He added that
"Chairman Ho Chi Minh has said: 'We must depend first on our own power and then on
the support and the backing of the progressive forces in the world. 111
Gen. Giap went on to express unqualified admiration for "the fighting spirit
of the Palestinian people and the Arab people, and our unreserved support for your
struggle. He voiced confidence that the Arabs would destroy Israel in the
so-called "liberation struggle.
I could not help but think of the killing of Israeli children when the
President announced the capture of so much enemy weaponry in Cambodia. I could not
help but think that a Russian-made or Chinese-made rocket or mine or mortar or
artillery piece captured by our troops diminishes the stockpiles from which the
Communists supply the radical Arab forces. When Russia and China dig into their
arms stockpiles to make up Hanoi's weapon losses, they obviously will have fewer
new arms to send to the Arabs. If the life of a single Israeli child is spared,
however indirectly, by the impact we have had upon Communist arms stockpiles and
replacement shipments to various terrorist forces of the world, I would be even
more appreciative of the heroism of our brave soldiers.
Let me say a word about the war in Vietnam and the pacifist-isolationist
sentiment in our nation today. There is a grave danger inherent in the amendments
pending before the Senate to restrict the ability of our Chief Executive to respond
to worldwide Communist threats and involvements. There are some who would bar the
use of American forces unless there is a direct enemy attack on American units or
the territory of the United States.
Possible aggressors would be assured, under some new concepts advanced in
Congress -- assured that the United States would never use its forces under specified
circumstances and that we would be inhibited, restricted, and restrained. I have
not heard of the Soviet Union enacting any such amendments. I have heard of them
pushing dangerously into the Middle East and landing missile troops and air
squadrons in Egypt.
We must not circumscribe the diplomatic influence of the President in seeking
to deter aggression. Let us consider the Soviet military movement into Egypt, the
actual presence of combat-ready Russian forces on the continent of Africa, a new
"Afrika Corps" only a quarter-century after the defeat of the German Nazis of
Rommel in North Africa. There are grim implications for Israel. But I also discern
a situation vitally affecting the national security of the United States.
(more)
-3-
Just as we have not written off Israel, we have not written off the Middle
East. Even though we are still involved in Southeast Asia, even though an
anti-military mood exists at home, even though there is division among our people --
let the Communists not miscalculate. Let them not push us too hard.
The Communists may learn that they have neither isolated nor neutralized
the United States. In the Middle East, by giving military support to the Arab
cause, Moscow is seeking to replace the United States as the dominant power in the
Mediterranean. Moscow has demanded that the United States Sixth Fleet leave the
Mediterranean. We should immediately move to strengthen our fleet. That is the
best answer.
The Soviet game in Egypt far transcends the Arab-Israeli conflict. The
Russians are fishing in those troubled waters to undermine the southern flank of
NATO, dominate the Mediterranean, and spread Communist influence from the Indian
Ocean to the South Atlantic.
Let me state one conviction very simply: I firmly believe that the fate of
Israel is linked with the national security of the United States.
Americans of Jewish faith feel very personal and human and understandable
ties with the State of Israel. But millions of other Americans also can identify
with the Israelis and with their dedication to freedom and survival as a nation.
There are some very instructive lessons that Americans of all faiths could learn
from the Israelis.
But I did not come here today to compliment the Israelis. Their courage
provides its own commentary. I came to assure you that actions are being taken.
I am free to speak only of my own initiative and my own action. Today I
can disclose that on June 2 I sent a personal letter to President Nixon.
I stated that in view of the dangerous and aggressive escalation of the crisis
apparent in the intrusion of Soviet combat pilots and missile battalions into Egypt,
a new sense of urgency has developed among members of the House of Representatives
regarding the necessity for a measured American response.
It was my own belief, shared by a majority of my colleagues, that the time
had come for the United States to approve the sale of the additional Phantom and
Skyhawk aircraft sought by Israel.
The failure to provide these jets may have disastrous results. My letter
pointed out that the Soviet Union has ignored our restraint and increased its own
involvement in a volatile situation.
(more)
-4-
We must redress the balance by providing the jets to Israel. This would
reassure our friends and prevent our enemies from miscalculating.
If we display inhibition in the face of Soviet military penetration, the
Russians will press more vigorously their drive to penetrate the Middle East and
Mediterranean. We could anticipate greater Arab belligerence through increased
commitment of conventional and guerrilla forces.
The President is aware that an intolerable situation will develop if the
Soviet Air Force provides Egypt with a privileged sanctuary from which to sally
forth across the Suez Canal with commando raids, air raids, artillery barrages,
and amphibious attacks. Soviet planes and pilots intruding on the United Nations
cease fire zone along the Suez Canal add a dangerous new dimension to the Middle
East conflict.
There are compelling reasons to bolster Israel in such manner as to make
the Russians think twice before tackling the valiant Israeli air force. I also
am convinced there is danger of a mood of desperation in Israel, born of a sense
of abandonment, that might lead the Israelis to launch pre-emptive operations that
could bring about open hostilities with Soviet military forces.
The President is aware that, unlike some other nations menaced by Communism,
Israel has not asked for American manpower. If the Israelis are willing to stand
up for their own survival, we must at least provide the necessary arms.
It was my feeling that assurance of continuity in the supply of Phantom
jets and other arms to Israel was in keeping with the President's courageous public
remarks of April 30 on the Cambodian situation. The chips are down in the Middle
East. We must act to retain credibility among friends and foes. We must deter the
Soviet Union from its new brinkmanship which seeks to exploit our present concerns
in Southeast Asia. We must let the Russians know that neo-isolationism and
pacificism are not yet such among Americans that Communism has our invitation to
subjugate the free world.
It would be a very timely move for the President not only to approve the
pending arms list for Israel but also to send a special commission, made up of
appropriate persons, to the Middle East to assess the developing danger created by
the Soviet escalation. The commission should include Government officials, members
of Congress, and persons from outside the Government. It would suggest to the
Russians the gravity of our concern.
Israeli Defense Minister Dayan recently announced that Israel had halted
deep penetration raids into Egypt to avoid possible clashes with Soviet forces.
(more)
-5-
He asserted readiness to re-establish an unconditional and unlimited cease-fire.
The only response from the Arabs has been a drastic increase in attacks as
the Russians screen Egypt with a protective umbrella. The commitment of Russian
military forces cannot be justified on grounds of defense of Egypt. Russian
involvement is linked with the mounting Arab campaign to liquidate Israel. The
commitment of Russian military forces is a negation of Soviet pretensions to
peace-making. Pilots, troops, and missiles are no way to reduce tensions!
Our government announced on March 23 that additional jet sales to Israel
would be temporarily halted. The State Department indicated that this restraint
was really a signal to Moscow that the United States wanted to cool down the arms
race; we were taking the first step so that the Russians would know our peaceful
intentions and similarly exercise restraint. We are now well aware of the Soviet
response.
We are trying to end one war under conditions of peace with honor. Moscow
is cynically escalating another war, introducing new elements and bringing
terrible risks of expansion of an already tragic conflict.
We cannot permit a situation in which the Russians would cover by their own
military forces the unrelenting war of attrition by the Arabs against Israel. The
Russian military power play is a matter of grave concern. I use the words "grave
concern" with careful deliberation. President Nixon stated on February 18 that
"the United States would view any effort by the Soviet Union to seek predominance
in the Middle East as a matter of grave concern." He warned against the
exploitation of a local conflict by an outside power for its own advantage. He
pledged arms to friendly states as the need arises. We delayed action to obtain
a first-hand explanation from the Russians of their intentions in Egypt. The
explanation was unsatisfactory.
The so-called peace movements of the world are still crying hysterically
for U.S. withdrawal from Indo-China although we are already in the process of
withdrawal. I have not yet heard these movements say anything about the withdrawal
of Soviet troops from the Arab-Israeli battle front. Since when are Russian troops
purely defensive while Americans are purely aggressive?
I place great emphasis on the need for fast action to strengthen the Israeli
air force. A strong airpower factor will allow Israel to maintain that nation's
defense without the need for involvement of American personnel.
If we allow the Soviet Union, through brutal application of its own military
forces, to crush Israel, it would mean the end of hope for all free nations of the
(more)
-6-
Mediterranean and even Western Europe. It would mean the end of the United States
as a symbol of freedom.
Israel is an asset to America, not a liability. The Russian target today
is the aircraft of Israel. Tomorrow the target of the new Soviet Egyptian air bases
may be the U.S. 6th Fleet. Moscow is converting Egypt into an unsinkable aircraft
carrier.
President Nixon understands the need to preserve freedom in the Middle East.
He pointed out that Israel's enemies can afford to fight a war and lose. They can
come back to fight again. But Israel cannot afford to lose even once. President
Nixon said, "America knows that, and America is determined that Israel is here
in the family of nations to stay."
The real interests of Arabs and Israelis, of Russians and Americans, require
peaceful coexistence. The United States is committed to peaceful and honorable
dealings with all men, at home and abroad. We are doing everything we can as
men of conscience and integrity, to promote peace.
And in Israel, that land where the prophets dreamed that nation should not
lift up sword against nation, let there be peace.
For Israel, a nation of people whose suffering merits a life more creative
than perpetual service in an armed camp, let there be peace. For the Arabs,
whose poverty and frustration require schools and hospitals and a decent life
rather than the endless purchase of jets and guns, let there be peace.
Israel could be a light unto the nations of that region if the Arabs would
accept fellow human beings of the Jewish faith as entitled to nationhood as any
other people. The genius and productivity of the Israelis could help others make
their deserts blossom.
Instead of the cradle of civilization becoming its grave, let the cradle of
civilization give rise to two peoples, Arab and Jewish, each in their own countries,
with commerce and travel flowing across peaceful borders, and with a new sense of
mutual respect in keeping with our dream of the brotherhood of man under the
fatherhood of God.
I want to add a special and very personal word to this audience. Many of
you have devoted your lives to the Israeli cause. You have seen in Israel a
redemption of freedom and human dignity, the rebirth of a people. But we are now
witnessing painful days, tragic days, in which the powers and political trends
and pressures of the world appear to be converging on the Middle East.
(more)
-7-
Israel was reborn in blood and fire. Israel is today struggling in an ordeal
of blood and fire. But this time it is different. The State of Israel has proved
its mettle. Israel is a nation among the nations.
You can take pride, as dedicated supporters of Israel, in the nation you
have helped build. But the watchman of Israel does not sleep.
Trying days lie ahead. Yet, in your heart of hearts, you can draw faith
and sustenance and reassurance from one fact: this is the United States of
America. This is our country and we, Jews and non-Jews, peoples of all parts of
this country, the silent Americans and the articulate Americans, will not let
Israel down.
# # #
office Capy
REMARKS BY REP. GERALD R. FORD, R-MICH.
REPUBLICAN LEADER, U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
BEFORE THE UNITED JEWISH APPEAL
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK
JUNE 8, 1970
FOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY AT 10:30 a.m.
The reason for this meeting is obvious. This is a time for action. We
have heard enough rhetoric.
Children are dying in Israel. They are being killed by Soviet rockets in
the hands of Arabs who are emulating the Viet Cong and the Communists of North
Vietnam.
What is my justification for stating that the Arab extremists are adopting
Viet Cong terrorist tactics? I call your attention to a recent visit to Hanoi by
a delegation representing the top leadership of the Al Fatah Arab guerrilla
movement. The Arabs were invited by Gen. Giap, the military leader of North
Vietnam.
A text of the minutes of the meeting was subsequently published by the
Arabs and the North Vietnamese. Gen. Giap told the Arabs, "We fight together;"
and he added, "You are right to clear the ground of its Israeli forces and blow up
their houses and liquidate their presence." That was Hanoi's advice to the Arabs.
The Hanoi meeting was followed by the return of the Arab guerrilla leaders
to the Middle East and some very terrible events. A school bus was ambushed.
Rockets were fired into school houses. Many children were killed. Others lay
maimed in hospitals.
Gen. Giap equated the Israelis with the Americans. He wanted total defeat
imposed upon both. He predicted that "the Palestinian revolution will triumph
like the Vietnamese revolution."
Arafat, the leader of the rocketeers who aim at Israeli school houses, told
his Vietnamese Communist hosts that the Arabs had "benefitted a great deal from
the tactics of Chairman Ho Chi Minh."
Gen. Giap voiced pleasure that Arab "guerrilla warfare is developing and
you have scored big victories."
Gen Giap is praised by a few of our American university professors for his
so-called heroism. He now tells the Arabs that "any method which can achieve your
(more)
-2-
victory is a good method. "We fight with military means. This is the main form
of fighting, but simultaneously we fight by political means." He added that
"Chairman Ho Chi Minh has said: 'We must depend first on our own power and then on
the support and the backing of the progressive forces in the world. "
Gen. Giap went on to express unqualified admiration for "the fighting spirit
of the Palestinian people and the Arab people, and our unreserved support for your
struggle.' He voiced confidence that the Arabs would destroy Israel in the
so-called "liberation struggle.'
I could not help but think of the killing of Israeli children when the
President announced the capture of so much enemy weaponry in Cambodia. I could not
help but think that a Russian-made or Chinese-made rocket or mine or mortar or
artillery piece captured by our troops diminishes the stockpiles from which the
Communists supply the radical Arab forces. When Russia and China dig into their
arms stockpiles to make up Hanoi's weapon losses, they obviously will have fewer
new arms to send to the Arabs. If the life of a single Israeli child is spared,
however indirectly, by the impact we have had upon Communist arms stockpiles and
replacement shipments to various terrorist forces of the world, I would be even
more appreciative of the heroism of our brave soldiers.
Let me say a word about the war in Vietnam and the pacifist-isolationist
sentiment in our nation today. There is a grave danger inherent in the amendments
pending before the Senate to restrict the ability of our Chief Executive to respond
to worldwide Communist threats and involvements. There are some who would bar the
use of American forces unless there is a direct enemy attack on American units or
the territory of the United States.
Possible aggressors would be assured, under some new concepts advanced in
Congress -- assured that the United States would never use its forces under specified
circumstances and that we would be inhibited, restricted, and restrained. I have
not heard of the Soviet Union enacting any such amendments. I have heard of them
pushing dangerously into the Middle East and landing missile troops and air
squadrons in Egypt.
We must not circumscribe the diplomatic influence of the President in seeking
to deter aggression. Let us consider the Soviet military movement into Egypt, the
actual presence of combat-ready Russian forces on the continent of Africa, a new
"Afrika Corps" only a quarter-century after the defeat of the German Nazis of
Rommel in North Africa. There are grim implications for Israel. But I also discern
a situation vitally affecting the national security of the United States.
(more)
-3-
Just as we have not written off Israel, we have not written off the Middle
East. Even though we are still involved in Southeast Asia, even though an
anti-military mood exists at home, even though there is division among our people ---
let the Communists not miscalculate. Let them not push us too hard.
The Communists may learn that they have neither isolated nor neutralized
the United States. In the Middle East, by giving military support to the Arab
cause, Moscow is seeking to replace the United States as the dominant power in the
Mediterranean. Moscow has demanded that the United States Sixth Fleet leave the
Mediterranean. We should immediately move to strengthen our fleet. That is the
best answer.
The Soviet game in Egypt far transcends the Arab-Israeli conflict. The
Russians are fishing in those troubled waters to undermine the southern flank of
NATO, dominate the Mediterranean, and spread Communist influence from the Indian
Ocean to the South Atlantic.
Let me state one conviction very simply: I firmly believe that the fate of
Israel is linked with the national security of the United States.
Americans of Jewish faith feel very personal and human and understandable
ties with the State of Israel. But millions of other Americans also can identify
with the Israelis and with their dedication to freedom and survival as a nation.
There are some very instructive lessons that Americans of all faiths could learn
from the Israelis.
But I did not come here today to compliment the Israelis. Their courage
provides its own commentary. I came to assure you that actions are being taken.
I am free to speak only of my own initiative and my own action. Today I
can disclose that on June 2 I sent a personal letter to President Nixon.
I stated that in view of the dangerous and aggressive escalation of the crisis
apparent in the intrusion of Soviet combat pilots and missile battalions into Egypt,
a new sense of urgency has developed among members of the House of Representatives
regarding the necessity for a measured American response.
It was my own belief, shared by a majority of my colleagues, that the time
had come for the United States to approve the sale of the additional Phantom and
Skyhawk aircraft sought by Israel.
The failure to provide these jets may have disastrous results. My letter
pointed out that the Soviet Union has ignored our restraint and increased its own
involvement in a volatile situation.
(more)
-4-
We must redress the balance by providing the jets to Israel. This would
reassure our friends and prevent our enemies from miscalculating.
If we display inhibition in the face of Soviet military penetration, the
Russians will press more vigorously their drive to penetrate the Middle East and
Mediterranean. We could anticipate greater Arab belligerence through increased
commitment of conventional and guerrilla forces.
The President is aware that an intolerable situation will develop if the
Soviet Air Force provides Egypt with a privileged sanctuary from which to sally
forth across the Suez Canal with commando raids, air raids, artillery barrages,
and amphibious attacks. Soviet planes and pilots intruding on the United Nations
cease fire zone along the Suez Canal add a dangerous new dimension to the Middle
East conflict.
There are compelling reasons to bolster Israel in such manner as to make
the Russians think twice before tackling the valiant Israeli air force. I also
am convinced there is danger of a mood of desperation in Israel, born of a sense
of abandonment, that might lead the Israelis to launch pre-emptive operations that
could bring about open hostilities with Soviet military forces.
The President is aware that, unlike some other nations menaced by Communism,
Israel has not asked for American manpower. If the Israelis are willing to stand
up for their own survival, we must at least provide the necessary arms.
It was my feeling that assurance of continuity in the supply of Phantom
jets and other arms to Israel was in keeping with the President's courageous public
remarks of April 30 on the Cambodian situation. The chips are down in the Middle
East. We must act to retain credibility among friends and foes. We must deter the
Soviet Union from its new brinkmanship which seeks to exploit our present concerns
in Southeast Asia. We must let the Russians know that neo-isolationism and
pacificism are not yet such among Americans that Communism has our invitation to
subjugate the free world.
It would be a very timely move for the President not only to approve the
pending arms list for Israel but also to send a special commission, made up of
appropriate persons, to the Middle East to assess the developing danger created by
the Soviet escalation. The commission should include Government officials, members
of Congress, and persons from outside the Government. It would suggest to the
Russians the gravity of our concern.
Israeli Defense Minister Dayan recently announced that Israel had halted
deep penetration raids into Egypt to avoid possible clashes with Soviet forces.
(more)
-5-
He asserted readiness to re-establish an unconditional and unlimited cease-fire.
The only response from the Arabs has been a drastic increase in attacks as
the Russians screen Egypt with a protective umbrella. The commitment of Russian
military forces cannot be justified on grounds of defense of Egypt. Russian
involvement is linked with the mounting Arab campaign to liquidate Israel. The
commitment of Russian military forces is a negation of Soviet pretensions to
peace-making. Pilots, troops, and missiles are no way to reduce tensions!
Our government announced on March 23 that additional jet sales to Israel
would be temporarily halted. The State Department indicated that this restraint
was really a signal to Moscow that the United States wanted to cool down the arms
race; we were taking the first step so that the Russians would know our peaceful
intentions and similarly exercise restraint. We are now well aware of the Soviet
response.
We are trying to end one war under conditions of peace with honor. Moscow
is cynically escalating another war, introducing new elements and bringing
terrible risks of expansion of an already tragic conflict.
We cannot permit a situation in which the Russians would cover by their own
military forces the unrelenting war of attrition by the Arabs against Israel. The
Russian military power play is a matter of grave concern. I use the words "grave
concern" with careful deliberation. President Nixon stated on February 18 that
"the United States would view any effort by the Soviet Union to seek predominance
in the Middle East as a matter of grave concern." He warned against the
exploitation of a local conflict by an outside power for its own advantage. He
pledged arms to friendly states as the need arises. We delayed action to obtain
a first-hand explanation from the Russians of their intentions in Egypt. The
explanation was unsatisfactory.
The so-called peace movements of the world are still crying hysterically
for U.S. withdrawal from Indo-China although we are already in the process of
withdrawal. I have not yet heard these movements say anything about the withdrawal
of Soviet troops from the Arab-Israeli battle front. Since when are Russian troops
purely defensive while Americans are purely aggressive?
I place great emphasis on the need for fast action to strengthen the Israeli
air force. A strong airpower factor will allow Israel to maintain that nation's
defense without the need for involvement of American personnel.
If we allow the Soviet Union, through brutal application of its own military
forces, to crush Israel, it would mean the end of hope for all free nations of the
(more)
-6-
Mediterranean and even Western Europe. It would mean the end of the United States
as a symbol of freedom.
Israel is an asset to America, not a liability. The Russian target today
is the aircraft of Israel. Tomorrow the target of the new Soviet Egyptian air bases
may be the U.S. 6th Fleet. Moscow is converting Egypt into an unsinkable aircraft
carrier.
President Nixon understands the need to preserve freedom in the Middle East.
He pointed out that Israel's enemies can afford to fight a war and lose. They can
come back to fight again. But Israel cannot afford to lose even once. President
Nixon said, "America knows that, and America is determined that Israel is here
in the family of nations to stay."
The real interests of Arabs and Israelis, of Russians and Americans, require
peaceful coexistence. The United States is committed to peaceful and honorable
dealings with all men, at home and abroad. We are doing everything we can as
men of conscience and integrity, to promote peace.
And in Israel, that land where the prophets dreamed that nation should not
lift up sword against nation, let there be peace.
For Israel, a nation of people whose suffering merits a life more creative
than perpetual service in an armed camp, let there be peace. For the Arabs,
whose poverty and frustration require schools and hospitals and a decent life
rather than the endless purchase of jets and guns, let there be peace.
Israel could be a light unto the nations of that region if the Arabs would
accept fellow human beings of the Jewish faith as entitled to nationhood as any
other people. The genius and productivity of the Israelis could help others make
their deserts blossom.
Instead of the cradle of civilization becoming its grave, let the cradle of
civilization give rise to two peoples, Arab and Jewish, each in their own countries,
with commerce and travel flowing across peaceful borders, and with a new sense of
mutual respect in keeping with our dream of the brotherhood of man under the
fatherhood of God.
I want to add a special and very personal word to this audience. Many of
you have devoted your lives to the Israeli cause. You have seen in Israel a
redemption of freedom and human dignity, the rebirth of a people. But we are now
witnessing painful days, tragic days, in which the powers and political trends
and pressures of the world appear to be converging on the Middle East.
(more)
-7-
Israel was reborn in blood and fire. Israel is today struggling in an ordeal
of blood and fire. But this time it is different. The State of Israel has proved
its mettle. Israel is a nation among the nations.
You can take pride, as dedicated supporters of Israel, in the nation you
have helped build. But the watchman of Israel does not sleep.
Trying days lie ahead. Yet, in your heart of hearts, you can draw faith
and sustenance and reassurance from one fact: this is the United States of
America. This is our country and we, Jews and non-Jews, peoples of all parts of
this country, the silent Americans and the articulate Americans, will not let
Israel down.
###