Israel’s 19th anniversary of independence was honored today in both the Senate and House with many statements by important members of Congress voicing goodwill toward Israel and hope for peace.
One highlight of the Congressional events was a luncheon tendered by Sen. Joseph S. Clark Pennsylvania Democrat, and member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The Senator was host to Israel Ambassador Avraham Harman and a number of Jewish personages from Philadelphia. In conjunction with the affair, Sen. Clark arranged for the opening prayer of today’s session of the Senate to be delivered by Rabbi David Goldstein, Har Zion Temple, Philadelphia.
Ambassador Harman, in remarks at the Senate luncheon, referred to the danger arising from the new forms of Syrian aggression. In addition to Sen. Clark, the luncheon was attended by three other members of the important Foreign Relations Committee — Senators John Sparkman, Alabama Democrat; Albert Gore, Tennessee Democrat; and Frank Lausche, Ohio Democrat.
Sen. Clark voiced hope for peace so that Israel could continue making what he termed her “outstanding contributions.” Sen. Sparkman expressed pleasure that America was the first to recognize and support Israel. Sen. Gore indicated agreement with Ambassador Harman’s concern over the threat of aggression. Sen. Lausche said he had today read the Book of Nehemiah in the Old Testament for inspiration pertaining to the rebuilding of Israel.
Meanwhile, on the floor of the Senate, Sen. Edward W. Brooke, Massachusetts Republican, who recently returned from a visit to Israel, lauded Israeli achievements. Sen. William Proxmire, Wisconsin Democrat, also commended Israel. In the House, a special order of business covering one hour was organized by Rep. Abraham J. Multer, New York Democrat, more than 30 members of the House, representing both parties, spoke in strong support of Israel.
Rep. Multer pointed out that Israel has sought peace despite threats and provocations. He noted that Israel would not stand for further aggression from Syria. Rep. Seymour Halpern, New York Republican, called attention to the absence of the U.S. Ambassador from the Independence Day parade in Jerusalem. He said: “I want to know why we are sending men to fight in Viet Nam to oppose aggression, when we don’t even send our Ambassador to the Independence Day parade of a friendly country.”
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