In a special broadcast to the nation today, Prime Minister David Ben Gurion assured the people of Israel that a mistake like the “false alarm” army reserve cal-up, broadcast by the Israel radio April 1, will never occur again.
Emphasizing that the incident had not caused either political or economic damage to Israel, Mr. Ben Gurion nevertheless conceded that the broadcast might have “undermined the deep and justified faith and confidence in the Israel Army, its men and officers.” He expressed his confidence that the officers responsible–Brig. Meir Zorea and Brig. Jehosophat. Harkavy–will utilize the lessons of the incident for improvement of further coordination between the various branches of the Army.
At the same time, Mr. Ben Gurion praised both officers for “their invaluable services to the Army.” He pointed out, however, that they should have carried out to the letter the orders given them by the Army’s chief of staff, Brig. Chaim Laskov.
It is known now that the two officers had been instructed to check with Gen. Laskov on the final date for the reservists’ call-up, and on the manner of issuing that call. Instead, they issued the call without final approval from Gen. Laskov.
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