King Hussein of Jordan said today there was hope for an eventual solution of the Israel-Arab problem, and that it would come sooner–once the world “properly” understood the question. The King spoke before the National Press Club.
He made no mention of Israel or Zionism in his formal address, and commented only in mild terms when questioned directly on issues involving Israel by name in the question period. The King expressed disagreement with Israel, but his remarks lacked the vitriolic bitterness usually voiced by Arab leaders.
King Hussein said the Israeli issue was not a question for Jordan alone, but a matter of justice for the Palestinian Arabs, the Arab people, the United Nations, and the world. As far as Jordan was concerned, the King said he would hesitate to enunciate any particular terms Jordan would require on this question.
The King cited the hostile Israel-Jordan frontier, and said he did not think anyone hoped a solution should not come. He said all hope that a joint solution will come soon, and would arrive sooner once people throughout the world look at this question and understand it properly.
He said it was necessary for the Arab refugees to receive continuing help as human beings in need, until a solution of Arab-Israel differences are brought about. In this connection, he said, the United Nations has a great responsibility. He urged that the world should think of the problem and try to understand it.
King Hussein emphasized he did not ask the United States during his visit for any new territorial security guarantees, beyond present commitments. He voiced general opposition to the United Arab Republic and President Nasser. He suggested that Nasser was not telling the truth when he recently stated that the UAR sought Arab support for a war against Israel five months ago, and that Iraq reneged. The King said Jordan received no such request from Nasser.
A warning was sounded by the King against Communist penetration of the region. He charged that some Arabs were collaborating with Communism. However, he did not seek to link Israel with Communism. He charged the UAR with attempting to exploit the Arab League structure for its own ends.
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