President Chaim Herzog issued a special statement Tuesday welcoming the release of Anatoly Shcharansky and greeting him with the traditional Hebrew blessing: “Blessed be He who frees the prisoners.”
The English text read over Israel Radio by Herzog said:
“Anatoly Shcharansky, a Prisoner of Zion, has become an example and a symbol. His struggle and his bravery gave courage to our brothers and sisters in the Soviet Union and inspired them in their struggle for their natural rights, both human and national, to study their traditions, their culture and the Hebrew language, and above all, to join their brothers and sisters in their homeland in the State of Israel.
“Anatoly Shcharansky has become a symbol for all freedom and human rights fighters throughout the world. His struggle has been a source of national identification for the Jewish people, and yet another example of the resilience of the Jewish spirit.
“Many of his fellows in the battle for human rights are still in the Soviet Union. He will not forget them, nor will we weaken in our resolve to continue in our efforts for their freedom.
“Anatoly Shcharansky did not sin, nor did he violate any law. He is a free man who fought a stubborn fight to maintain his Jewish identity and to live as a proud Jew, to live amongst his people in his homeland.
“On his arrival home, with the realization of his long-hoped for dream, he will be received with open arms and deep affection. I trust that our natural tendency to smother him with affection and good will will not hinder him from joining his wife, Avital, in making their joint dream of years come true, and in permitting him to build a happy home amongst us in peace and harmony.
“Our admiration and respect go out to Avital, who fought untiringly for Anatoly and the remaining Prisoners of Zion. Welcome home, Anatoly. May many others follow you.”
In his Hebrew statement, Herzog paid tribute and expressed Israel’s thanks to President Reagan and Secretary of State George Shultz for their endeavors to effect Shcharansky’s release.
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