The issue of freedom of navigation, which concerns Israel not only in regard to shipping through the Suez Canal but also because Arab states have been advocating steps that might result in curbing Israel’s freedom of marine Government in the Gulf of Akaba, came forcefully to the front here today at the second United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea.
The conference, which has been in session since March 17, has on its agenda only two items: the breadth of the so-called “territorial sea,” involving the limitation of sea area that a nation may claim as being under its own jurisdiction; and the limitation of fishing areas.
Arab spokesmen have been insisting since the conference opened that the “territorial sea” limitation be fixed at 12 miles. Such a limit could be interpreted as denying to Israel the right to use the Gulf of Akaba, which is bordered not only by Israel but also by the United Arab Republic and Saudi Arabia.
At this afternoon’s session of the conference, Israel’s delegation chairman, Gidvon Rafael, reasserted Israel’s traditional insistence on the claim that the “territorial sea” does not extend beyond six miles.
“We are in favor of the fullest measure of freedom of navigation, ” Mr. Rafael declared, “and this would be impaired by any undue extension of territorial sea or any other restrictive measures changing well-established rules and practices. We consider that the maximum of six nautical miles for territorial sea meets the requirements.”
Regarding fishing rights, the Israeli said his Government would accept extension of the six-mile limit to an additional six miles if suitable safeguards were provided to “avoid undue harm to existing rights.”
Mr. Rafael made a plea for agreement by the conference on the two points on its agenda, calling upon all opposing sides to find compromises. But in regard to territorial sea limitations, he insisted, Israel is “anxious to guard against any encroachment upon our sovereignty, which is the shield of our independence and liberty.”
He pointed out that Israel’s merchant marine has increased from “negligible beginnings” to 250,000 gross registered tons, and stated “we are planning further increase in the near future. Our ships are sailing the seven seas. We have invested much effort in the development of our fishing fleet and industry.”
Referring to Israel’s geographical position, and the importance of her communications, Mr. Rafael said that it was his Government’s view that “the area of the territorial sea should be kept within the narrowest possible limits.”
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