President Ford and Democratic Presidential nominee Jimmy Carter praised American Jewry’s support of Israel’s economic needs through Israel Bonds. In a message from the White House to Sam Rothberg, general chairman of the Israel Bond Organization, at the closing session of the International Fall Leadership Conference here, Ford stated:
“As you meet to consider Israel’s economic needs, I wish to congratulate the Jewish communities of America on the devotion and effectiveness with which they have supported Israel through the Israel Bond program and other channels. The American people and this Administration are firmly committed to the security of Israel. It is our policy to pursue peace in the Middle East–peace which recognizes Israel’s right to security and independence–and to affirm its right to secure borders.”
In a telegram to Michael Arnon, president of Israel Bonds, Carter said:
“I wish to extend to you my congratulations on the holding of your International Fall Leadership Conference. I strongly commend your efforts on behalf of State of Israel Bonds. An investment in the State of Israel is an investment in peace. The strengthening of Israel’s economy and defense is a major concern to all Americans. As I have stated many times in the past, my support for Israel is firm and undeviating. We must continue to supply in the full amount necessary the economic and military aid so that Israel can pursue peace from a position of strength and be protected against any unforeseeable attack. The security of Israel is not just a political issue, it is a moral imperative.”
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The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
