Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

British Commander-in-chief in Middle East Arrives in Israel to Confer with Government

February 20, 1951
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

General Sir Brian Robertson, British commander-in-chief in the Middle East, arrived at Lydda International Airport this morning for a brief visit during which he will confer with members of the Israel Government. He was received today by Premier David Ben Gurion.

“There is no need to imagine mysterious reasons for my visit,” Gen. Robertson told newsmen at the airport. “I have already visited several Middle Eastern countries and in due course I shall visit all of them. Relations between my government and the Israel Government are friendly. We can both take pleasure in that fact.

“It would be far more mysterious if I did not visit Israel alone among the countries who are concerned, like ourselves, in the peace and security of the Middle East,” he continued. “I certainly did not come here,” Gen. Robertson declared, “to suggest that Israel should do anything she does not regard as in her own best interests.”

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement