The Israel Cabinet approved today the stand taken by Prime Minister Moshe Sharett on the situation in the Gaza border area. Mr. Sharett will, it is believed, meet with Maj. Gen. E. L. M. Burns, United Nations truce chief, and convey to him the view of the Israel Government on a communication on the Egyptian-Israel border conflict sent to Mr. Sharett by UN Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold.
Mr. Hammarskjold’s communication was delivered to Premier Sharett by Gen. Burns on Saturday evening. A similar communication was dispatched by the UN Secretary General to Egypt’s Premier Col. Gamal Abdel Nassar. Mr. Hammarskjold urged both sides to refrain from actions that would increase tension on the border and to cooperate in support of Gen. Burns’ efforts to alleviate the existing tension.
Well informed circles here stated today that until Egypt undertakes to end attacks against Israel in the Gaza area, there can be no talks on any new plans. These sources said that the prominence given all over the world to Col. Nasser’s latest political move calling for the establishment of a demilitarized zone on the Israel-Egyptian frontier is aimed at deceiving world public opinion by making it appear that Egypt is sincerely trying to abate tension in the border area. The only way to ease the tension is for Egypt to cease immediately the laying of mines in Israel’s territory and to stop shelling Israel settlements and patrols which move along the Israel side of the border, it was emphasized.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
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.