John Fitzgerald Kennedy President of the United States of America
Ambassador Harman,
Secretary Rusk has informed me of the conversation you two had, and I am in agreement that Israel and the United States needs to deepen the current state of relations. I firmly believe that the United States has a moral imperative to ensure the existence of the Israeli state, and believe that as a budding democracy in the Middle East, Israel can be a shining light for the future.
I look forward to discussing what topics you would like to propose during our meeting here in the Oval Office, Ambassador.
Avraham Harman Israeli Ambassador to the United States of America
Mr. President,
Thank you for taking the time to personally welcome me. I greatly appreciate the sincerity and candor shown towards my homeland.
Likewise, I share your view that our nation can serve as a positive role model for other nations in our region to follow. If we are able cooperate for the betterment of our nations, boundless opportunities exist for all.
My agenda had 5 items of interest.
Securing a more permanent diplomatic arrangement between the United States and Israel.
A request for American assurances that Israel will not be allowed to be destroyed by Soviet-backed nations, such as Egypt, Syria, or Jordan.
An allowance for Israel to directly support American Jewish organizations and vice versa.
Agricultural, Industrial, Financial, Medical, and Scientific Cooperation.
Military Equipment Purchases or Arms Market agreements, if agreeable.
If none of the terms are objectionable, I would love to explore the extent of America’s policy shift from the last administration.
In turn, is there any way that we can support American interests in the region?
John Fitzgerald Kennedy President of the United States of America
I believe the topics you wish to discuss are reasonable topics for discussion, and I can at least address the each point you raise.
On point one, I think this goes without saying, as it is a matter that I and my administration believe in strongly for the relationship between Israel and the United States. That does, however, also lead into point two. I think it is fair to view these two topics as one from the perspective of the United States. The United States is prepared to discuss a broader diplomatic framework with Israel in regards to our relationship, but we also have to consider our relations with the Arab States and the influence of the Soviet Union can have upon those countries. The UAR (Egypt & Syria), Jordan, and Iraq are all nations that we are needing to consider the importance of a moderate relationship with them. One way I believe that this can be done with Israel is further discussion on the topic of the Palestinian issue - which is a topic for another time. That being said, I believe the State Department is capable at this time of ensuring a position where we can work with the Arab states while also improving our relations and expanding the relations with Israel.
On points four and five, I believe that further cooperation can certainly be achieved. Jewish Americans are a significant group in modern American history, particularly in this century. The continued cooperation on matters such as agriculture, industry, scientific cooperation are all key matters to discuss. Financial, too, though I would appreciate some further expansion on this from the perspective of the Israeli government. Further to this, my administration is exploring the option of ending the arms embargo on Israel that has been in place during the Truman and Eisenhower Administrations, despite both administrations open state of support for the Israeli state.
Finally - if you could expand on point three, I would greatly appreciate to hear what this means from the Israeli perspective.
Avraham Harman Israeli Ambassador to the United States of America
I can understand a difference of perspective. With regards to the moderation of a relationship, I can speak to the Prime Minister’s Office being prepared to negotiate with the government of Lebanon, at a later date. Contingent on our ability to prevent a repeat of the horrific events of the late 1940s.
Regarding point three, there have been repeated concerns raised by the American Jewish community with their ability to associate with the Jews of Israel, to travel to Israel, or to fundraise for our cause. Likewise, Israelis have faced difficulties in getting travel authorizations to see their friends, family, and colleagues in the United States. I hope we can make improvements to the status quo.
I am aware of several occasions on which Jews, who had committed no crime, were falsely accused by law enforcement of colluding with our intelligence community to harm the Unites States. A truly unfortunate accusation, I’m aware of no such behavior, and would deeply regret it if it occurred.
It would be a pleasure if the American administration were to extend an open hand to our government to expand agriculture, industry, and scientific collaboration. With regards to finances, many Jews, and non-Jewish investors in the United States would love to pursue our rapidly developing region, likewise, many Israelis would find it beneficial to keep a nest egg within the United States, which is the most stable, free, and secure nation that is sympathetic to our population.
An end to the arms embargo would greatly assuage our concerns for national security, and make future discussions with the neighboring Arab states significantly more productive. I am hopeful that our native industries will also have offerings that the United States can benefit from.
John Fitzgerald Kennedy President of the United States of America
With regards to the concerns raised by Jewish Americans, my Administration can work with Congress to see what can be done to alleviate concerns related to travel and association for Jewish Americans, particularly those with familial ties to Israel. Is this something that the Israeli government would find acceptable in this case? Regarding the situation related to crimes and potential collusion with foreign governments, this is something that has been a concern in the American government for the last decade, mostly as a result of the Red Scare. As we move beyond that period in American history, my Administration will work towards repairing the damage that this period has done to innocent Americans - no matter their race or creed.
Further to this, I believe that we can work together on establishing collaboration in those economic sectors, including finance. I believe this may be a matter for the State Department and the Department of Commerce to negotiate with their Israeli counterparts to establish something more concrete following our conversation.
Lastly, in order for Israel to be capable of national defense and survival, I believe that an end to the arms embargo will be pivotal. It is my hope, too, that by removing the arms embargo in conjunction with a commitment from the Israeli government, in partnership with the United States, to work towards lasting arrangements with Arab states, we can ensure the safety and existence of Israel in perpetuity.
Avraham Harman Israeli Ambassador to the United States of America
Thank you once again for demonstrating a desire to mend the rifts between our countries. I would find your administration collaborating with Congress to reform the legislative foundations that have caused difficulties for Jewish Americans and their families most pleasing, as would many others.
In turn, I will relay to Tel Aviv the agreement that we should have an in-depth series of discussions for American-Israeli trade, and a delegation will be sent as soon as possible.
An end to the American arms embargo would vastly increase the likelihood of successful diplomacy, especially if the Egyptian (UAR) government can be convinced to normalize relations with us. I hope that you are right, Mr. President, a lasting peace would be best, rather than more bloodshed with the Arab states.
A repeat of the past atrocities must never happen again.
