A. J. C. PRESIDENT SATISFIED WITH BEN GURION’S STATEMENT
“The attachment of the Jews throughout the world for Israel is based on a joint spiritual and cultural heritage,” Mr. Ben Gurion told the Committee. “Jews throughout the world are expressing their attachment and dedication to Israel in various ways. But these, in whatever form they may be expressed carry no political connotations whatsoever.”
Mr. Engel expressed satisfaction with the statement, adding that the “American Jewish Committee and we believe that overwhelmingly the majority of the American Jews adhere to the principle that Israel represents only the citizens of Israel.” He made it clear that “we do not accept the assertion that unless the Jews settle in Israel they are doomed either to physical or spiritual extinction.”
Emphasizing that the American Jewish Committee supported the creation of Israel, Mr. Engel said: “We have been doing this and shall continue because we believe that for a large number of Jews, Israel represents a central source of spiritual nourishment.” In stressing the AJC’s support of Israel, Mr. Engel said that the “interests of Israel and of the United States are in full harmony and a viable Israel will help strengthen the United States and the free world’s position.”
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