Stringent security measures were in force at Lod Airport today as Defense Minister Moshe Dayan departed for the United States on an El Al flight. Labor Minister Yosef Almogi and Gen. Ezer Weizman, chairman of the Herut Party, left on the same plane. Dayan and Almogi are both scheduled to address United Jewish Appeal and Israel Bond functions in the U.S. Weizman is on a private trip. Dayan will meet with U.S. Secretary of State William P. Rogers and with top Pentagon officials on Tuesday. He told reporters at the airport, “in my meeting at the Pentagon I will raise the current problems and activities.”
Asked if he would present his own views in Washington or those of the government, Dayan retorted sharply, “During a trip abroad I represent the government of Israel and all of the activities in the administered areas are consistent with government policy and decisions.” Dayan’s views on the future of the territories came under sharp and unprecedented criticism several days ago from two of his Cabinet colleagues, Deputy Premier Yigal Allon and Finance Minister Pinhas Sapir. (See separate story).
All passengers departing on Dayan’s plane were ordered to check in at the airport 3 1/2 hours before flight time and underwent a minute search of their baggage. The plane was also thoroughly searched before take-off.
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