Udall Wishes Israel a Happy 60th Birthday

Congressman Calls for Peace and Prosperity in Israel and the Region

WASHINGTON – Representative Udall today released the following statement to recognize the 60th Anniversary of the creation of the modern state of Israel:

“Roughly sixty years ago today, Harry Truman had a problem.

“After two thousand years as “strangers in a strange land,” the Jewish people were about to establish a homeland in the land of their fathers. Many Americans believed that our nation would support the aspirations of the Jewish people. However, President Truman’s own Secretary of State threatened to vote against the president in the next election if Truman backed Israel.

“At midnight on May 14, 1948, Israel declared independence. Eleven minutes later, America recognized the new state. Truman’s act of courage created an essential and vital bond. Every American government since that day has recognized America’s special relationship with Israel.

“Since 1948, Israel has shown the world true courage and perseverance. They have made the desert bloom, fended off countless acts of aggression and built a lasting testament to the potential for democracy and freedom in the Middle East. Today, Israeli citizens speak dozens of languages and come from hundreds of countries. They include war-scarred Holocaust survivors, refugees from the ghettos of the Eastern Bloc and young pioneers from the New World. What they share is a common love of their country and commitment to their people. Like America, Israel has turned its diversity into a source of strength and pride.

“In New Mexico, we have a great deal of respect for those who make the desert bloom. Israel now ranks as New Mexico's 11th leading trade partner, and since 1996 we have exported more than $490 million worth of goods to Israel. In 2006 alone, our state produced nearly $3 million in defense products for the Israeli military. Like those throughout New Mexico, I have consistently supported Israel’s efforts to defend itself against terrorists and others who seek to harm her, and to seek peace with her neighbors.

“As we pass this resolution honoring the 60th Anniversary of Israeli Independence, I want to express my congratulations, my support, and my hope that the next 60 years will bring peace and prosperity to Israel and the region.”