Algerian Jewish Leaders Oppose Nationalist Theories and Jewish State

A manifesto issued here by six prominent Algerian Jewish leaders opposes the establishment of a Jewish state anywhere and protests against “the conception that the Jews are a race or people.” The latter theory is contrary to all anthropological teachings, and would result in perpetuation of Nazi racial theories in France, even after the Germans are defeated, the manifesto says. “Judaism must once and for all be considered only a religion,” it adds.

The proclamation is apparently intended as a rebuke to certain Jewish groups here, who have joined with Arab nationalists in demanding an end to French sovereignty after the war. Regarding Palestine, the manifesto calls for a “harmonious fusion of all elements there.” It is signed by Armand Karsenty, an Oran attorney; Prof. Rafael Dreyfus of Oran; Jacques Nathan, former professor at the University of Paris; Alexander Guenoun, an Oran teacher; Albert Solal, president of the Oran chamber of commerce and Jules Skalli, an industrialist in the same city.