Rabbi Abba Hillel Silver was received was received today by President Eisenhower at the White House, in the presence of Secretary of State John Foster Dulles. Emerging after an hour-long meeting, Dr. Silver said he had no way of knowing whether the United States would sell arms to Israel. He added that he had obtained the impression that Israel’s arms application is under active consideration.
The American Zionist leader told newsmen that the President seemed familiar with the Israel viewpoint on the arms issue. He quoted the President as saying it was one of the major subjects which concern him every day. Asked if he was encouraged by what he was told at the White House today, Dr. Silver said that such encouragement could only be brought about by positive action. He emphasized that he would never be satisfied until arms are actually provided. But, he said, he was satisfied the question is being treated in a serious, friendly, and urgent manner.
Dr. Silver termed the discussion “frank and friendly.” He said he described at considerable length Israel’s need for arms as a deterrent against aggression. He reported on his recent observations in Israel and told Mr. Eisenhower of the concern and sense of isolation and insecurity in Israel resulting from the Communist-Egyptian arms deal.
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