ABBA EBAN - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 06/01/1953 - HFSID 327089

ABBA EBAN
Letter of congratulations from the Israeli Foreign Minister on an associate's commendation from the Jewish community of Schenectady, saying that the recipient is a "staunch friend of Israel" and that he has been a fellow inspiration to fellow Jewish people
Typed letter signed: "Abba Eban", in black ink, 8½x11. June 1, 1953. Washington, D.C. Embassy of Israel. In part: "Dear Mr. Graubart: I am pleased to convey to you on my own behalf and on behalf of the State of Israel, warm felicitations on the occasion of the testimonial being tendered to you by the Jewish community of Schenectady. I know that for many years you have been in the forefront of every major communal endeavor and that you have always been a staunch friend of Israel. Your leadership in the State of Israel Bond program since it's inception has been a source of inspiration to your fellow Jews". When Israel was threatened with an Arab blockade in May 1967, Abba Eban (1915-2002), Israeli Foreign Minister from 1966-1974, traveled to Paris, London and Washington to seek a peaceful solution. When diplomacy failed, on June 5, 1967, Israel preemptively attacked Egypt and Syria, destroying their air forces on the ground within a few hours. Jordan joined in the fighting belatedly, and consequently was attacked by Israel as well. The Egyptian, Syrian and Jordanian armies were decisively defeated, and Israel captured the West Bank from Jordan, the Gaza Strip and the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt and the Golan Heights from Syria. The war ended in six days. Eban's eloquent defense of Israel's actions before the United Nations Security Council and General Assembly was widely admired. Normal mailing folds. Light surface creases. Slightly toned. Corners slightly worn and creased. Otherwise, fine condition.