Israel’s People Are Not Alone

“Israel’s political crisis is Israel democracy’s finest hour.” it was asserted today by Rabbi Israel Miller, chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. In a statement issued on the eve of Israel’s 26th anniversary. Rabbi Miller noted that “Israel’s many friends in this country are understandably concerned about the national mood in the Jewish state. The situation is serious and should not be minimized. But it is important to put it into proper perspective.”

The Presidents Conference chairman said that “the differences among Israel’s people are many. But they stand united in defending their land and building their nation. And they are resolved that political and social change shall be achieved only through the country’s democratic institutions.” Rabbi Miller’s statement was issued in the form of a letter to the heads of the Presidents Conference’s 33 constituent organizations. He asked the organizations to disseminate the statement among their memberships.

Rabbi Miller described the role of the American Jewish community during the current period as “crucial.” He declared: “Clearly, we cannot participate in the political processes of Israel, nor take sides in the controversies of past and present. But we can–and must–act to demonstrate that we are at one with the people of Israel.”

A major task of the organized Jewish community in America, Rabbi Miller said was “to demonstrate for all to see that Israel’s people are not alone. At a time when the Soviet Union is encouraging Arab intransigence at the bargaining table and re-supplying Arab armies with ever-greater shipments of military equipment, our country must remain steadfast in providing Israel with essential diplomatic, economic and military support.” He added: “The unity of interest between Israel and the U.S. is the great constant in the rapidly-shifting Middle East scene.”