A resolution which would, in effect, condemn Israel for holding a rehearsal in Jerusalem of the military parade planned in connection with Israel’s forthcoming celebration on April 20 of its 13th anniversary, and ordering Israel not to hold such a parade, was proposed to the Security Council here today by the delegations of Ceylon and the United Arab Republic.
After hearing a staunch defense of Israel’s plans from France listening to other addresses by the representatives of Britain, China, the UAR and Turkey, and hearing the draft resolution denounced by Israel as “one-sided” and likely to increase Jordanian-Israeli tensions, the Council adjourned until tomorrow morning.
Arthur Lourie, acting permanent representative of Israel, told the Council that, as several members of the body had noted in their speeches, “there has been relative calm in the area and tranquility as between Jordan and Israel.” He said, however, “I doubt whether this resolution, dealing with a purely ceremonial matter like the parade, would contribute toward easing the tensions. The resolution is in fact out of all proportion to the issue and is one-sided.” Mr. Lourie said that the dispute regarding the parade could be settled between Israel and Jordan “on the spot.”
Ceylon’s Ambassador T.B. Subasinghe, this month’s president of the Council, said in ordering adjournment of the body, that several delegations want to consult their government before proceeding with the debate. It was assumed that, among these delegations, was that of the United States.
Armand Berard, of France, spoke in terms praising both Israel and Jordan for the tranquility in their area, and appealed to both sides to settle the issue between them. While agreeing with Jordan that there was reason for concern when a military parade is held on the Israeli side of the border in Jerusalem, he declared, however, that Israel has assured the Council the occasion will be “purely ceremonial.” He pointed out that Israel had promised to keep ammunition from the armored vehicles to be paraded, and to have United Nations observers watch that no violation of armistice regulations takes place.
The draft resolution, presented by the United Arab Republic “notes” that the Jordan-Israel Mixed Armistice Commission had adopted a resolution on this issue on March 20, endorses that decision, and “urges Israel to comply with this decision.” However, the MAC resolution to which the Council draft refers specifically condemned Israel for its rehearsal last month in preparation for the April 20 parade, and ordered Israel to cancel its parade plans.
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