s

Purely Commentary

'The Sun Stood Still'— Excellent
Reporting, Brilliant Writing and Observation

Many books have already been written about the
June Six-Day War. Within a couple of weeks after
the historic events which restored Israel's security,
volumes describing the ocurrences, the events that
preceded June 5, the war itself and the aftermath,
began to escalate out of publishing houses.
There were hundreds of magazine articles. M. S.
Arnoni's lengthy review of the Middle East crisis
in his magazine The Minority of One was among the
significant literary products.
Few, however. match in brilliance the latest
evaluative work, "The Sun Stood Still — Israel and
the Arabs at War." by Roderick MacLeish, pub-
lished by Atheneum.
It is an impressive and revealing work in the
sense that it does not merely relate the facts
but deals with them in their historical sense,
touching upon the sociological factors, reviewing
the political approaches, probing the minds of
the peoples involved and their leaders.
MacLeish, radio and television commentator for
Westinghouse Broadcasting Co., had been to Arab
countries but not in Israel. He accepted the assign-
ment and the fulfillment of it is contained in the two
parts of the book—Cairo: May 28 - June 2 and Tel
Aviv: June 4 - June 9. In the intervening week-end
he was in Rome. He certainly could not have gone
to Israel direct from Egypt.
There is cause for gratitude to MacLeish for his
thorough account of his Cairo visit not only because
it relates how the Egyptians clamored for war but
for the excellent biographical data about Gamal
Abdel Nasser and King Hussein and his description
of the relationships between the Arab rulers.
The Cairo portion of the MacLeish book has
the additional merit of analyzing Russia's role
in the Middle East. The USSR plays a game, and
it provided the Arab states — primarily Syria
and certainly also the UAR — with vast amounts
of weapons. Yet even the Russians were baffled
by the Egyptians' manipulations and inade-
quacies.
Nevertheless, Russia came to wage war on Israel
at the United Nations and MacLeish reviews
minutely the developments which led to the verbal
attacks on Israel. Suffice it to quote MacLeish's
conclusion that in the UN "Nikolai Fedorenko was
sounding as if he had taken leave of his senses.
His accusation that the Israelis were behaving in a
'Hitlerian' manner will go down in history as one of
diplomacy's vulgar non-sequiturs."
It is well to understand Nasser and Hussein and
Shukairy — as MacLeish portrays them. Besides,
MacLeish's account of the actions and attitudes of
foreign embassies in Cairo is valuable for an under-
standing of a war that will continue to cause amaze-
ment immemorially.
The reader of "The Sun Stood Still" will be
grateful to the author also for his explanation of the
influence of Islam teachings upon the present rulers.
There is this interesting observation:

"Islam is one of the roots of the people upon
whom Nasser is building a state. Even the
proletarian Syrians don't dare trample too hard
on religion. A Syrian officer said, just before
the war, that Islam is passe and ought to be
out in a museum; he was publicly reprimanded."

The role of Syria as evaluated by MacLeish is
equally valuable. The Syrians wanted guerrilla war-
fare. They didn't get along with the other Arab
leaders — and which of them did, except that
Hussein suddenly kissed Nasser after all the abuse
he received at his hands?

"We are going to war!" was the rapturous
scream MacLeish heard in Cairo during his week's
stay in Egypt. He was soon to learn the meaning
and extent of incitement to it, although Nasser may
have merely mouthed it without desiring it.

"Prospects of Peace in the Mid-
dle East: What Can We Learn
from the Past?" will be the topic
for the 12th annual Midrasha In-
stitute at the Esther Berman Build-
ing of the United Hebrew Schools.

The second lecturer on March
27, will be Dr. Nasrollah S. Fatemi,
dean of graduate studies at Fair-
leigh Dickinson University, whose
subject will be "Jews and Arabs:
Historical Survey."

The series will include four lec-
tures by distinguished scholars
who will discuss various aspects
of the Middle East situation. Em-
phasis will be placed on the growth
of Islam and its influence in shap-
ing the destiny of the peoples of
the Eastern Mediterranean basin,
as well as on the possibilities for
a better understanding between
Jews and Arabs.

On April 3, Prof. Emil Lengyel,
chairman of social sciences depart-
ment, Fairleigh Dickinson ;Univer-
sity, will speak on "The Rise of
Nationalism in the Middle East."

2 Friday, February 9, 1968

—

More Tension for Israel—Turkish, Iranian Antagonisms

Israel needs friends, and the Jewish State's pride has been that
at least two of the countries in her area—Turkey and Iran (Persia)—
have been friendly and that there were amicable liberations with them.
But in recent days we have had antagonistic declarations from
MacLeish came to Israel a day before the both. Emulating the cry of "get out .. . get out" , . "withdraw from
war broke out. He had a chance to get some occupied territories," these two countries are resorting to similar
briefings. He came to a land which, in contrast outcries when affirming a desire for peace.
with Egypt, was not infested with the flies about
It is understandable that such outcries are being uttered for the
which his book reports at the very outset. He sake of assuaging a certain amount of public sentiments. There are
reached civilization — he doesn't say so in many Moslems in Turkey and Iran and it is for their benefit that an occa-
words but his story indicates a great difference sional anti-Israel outburst of oratory is sounded. Meanwhile there
in atmosphere. The title of his book is in itself is free exchange of trade and of tourism between Israel and these
biblical — it is from the Book of Joshua: "And two countries and hope persists that the relations will remain friendly
the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until between the three countries. But Israel must remain cautious at all
people had avenged themselves upon their times, striving to solidify rather than weaken such friendships. That's
enemies
where tensions enter and the demands for Israel's calmness and
Yet throughout the story, contrary again, to diplomatic skills come into play in situations that are endlessly
Egyptian outcries, it was not vengeance that was challenging situations.
sought but a chance to live and ho have peace.
Will It Be 'Rabbi' Kennedy Next?
There are no limits to gimmicks in fund-raising and award-
MacLeish's report of his Tel Aviv visit follows
the Cairo pattern. It tells about the people and the giving.
Conservative Judaism's theological seminary annually conducts
political parties and their leaders. Eshkol, Ben-
Gurion, Dayan, Eban pass in review. So do the an appeal for funds in Miami Beach. It happens to be a wonderful
location
during the winter months—an ideal spot in which to contact
military leaders who waited with their report about
a great triumph until more could be triumphed, not the vacationists who have the means to make the gifts.
Yearly, the seminary finds some one to serve as an attraction for
to permit too speedy a UN cease-fire.
In this portion, too, there is a chance to learn audience-gathering.
This year it'll be U. S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Ted Kennedy
about the stupidities of Hussein, his collaboration
with Nasser in concocting the lie about aid to Israel will receive the seminary's degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.
As of Feb. 26, Ted Kennedy will be honorary alumnus of a
by the United States and Britain.
Jewigh theological seminary.
Previous works described the speed with
(Detroiters who heard the Massachusetts Senator
which the Israeli forces acted to acquire Gaza
at an Allied Jewish Campaign black-tie dinner two
and its environs, to get to the Suez. MacLeish's,
years ago will recall how he mesmerized them with
with great simplicity, seems to be even more
observations that were marked by a total lack of under-
thorough. It is a report for the average layman
standing of the Arab-Israel issue).
and not for the Pentagon, as some books seem
What a remarkable ecumenical stunt!
to have been angled in an earnest desire to
It's the closest to making it Rabbi Kennedy!
display understanding of military skills. Mac-
The seminary needs and should get lots of support. Let's hope
Leish is a broadcaster suddenly turned author this stunt will bring desired results. If we must go to a Kennedy to
and he accomplishes his task well in reaching get Jews to come to a meeting and to give for a rabbinic school, let
out for the average listener to the news: his it at least be successful.
reportorial work approaches perfection in
And on Feb. 27—let's begin asking: what next? any other gim-
simplicity.
micks and tricks in fund-raising? any other ecumenical stunts? shall
MacLeish also describes the horrors of warfare. we make it Rabbi Kennedy next?
He tells about the devastation in the Gaza area, on The Prejudices of a National Periodical
the war to El Arish. He describes the loss of
A system-grinder hates the truth.
Egyptian lives, the bodies that were strewn on the
When the U.S.S. Liberty tragedy occurred shortly after the June
roadways, and when he related it to a young Israeli Six-Day War, the National Observer saw fit to enter into a lengthy
girl, a member of the Israel armed forces, she was tirade against Israel. In an editorial that was as close as one could
horrified. This is really the story of Israel: the get to anti-Semitism, that periodical resorted to accusations that were
search for the human element.
never fully sustained. It made charges that were not corroborated by
Israel, too, was attacked. Natania suffered from the Pentagon.
an air raid. MacLeish tells how the residents soon
—Ralph Waldo EmersOis
regained their composure: they hadn't even been
Now, so close to the Pueblo misfortune, when it is generally con-
given the warning of an impending attack. The ceded that in an area of good will, reflected in American-Israel friend-
Natanians collected the rubble and spoke of re- ship, such an incident could not occur between two nations who are in
building.
an amicable accord, as in the case of the U.S.S. Liberty, the National
It was inevitable that there should be rejoicing, Observer again resorts to venom. It has just stated editorially:
"No amount of money can ever really compensate the families
but MacLeish tells how little there was of jubilia-
tion. It is no wonder, therefore, that as he was of the 34 American sailors killed last June in the wanton attack by
about to get on a plane to return to London, on the Israelis on the U.S.S. Liberty. But it is refreshing to learn that
June 9, he reported in these closing words in his Washington finally has presented a claim of $3,300,000 to Israel on
behalf of the families. Israel has agreed to the principle. We trust
book:
there will be no haggling that would only add to the lingering stench
As the passengers walked toward
of this sickening episode."
the aircraft, the attendant said to
National Observer's editors need not be so sanctimonious. They
each, 'Shalom.' In Israel the word is
are not alone in feeling that "no amount of money can compensate"
used for hello and good-bye.
the bereaved families. But they need not inspire hate and suspicion by
But it really means peace.
speaking of "haggling," by charging "wanton" intentions, by inciting
In the land. In the soul.
to further prejudice about a "lingering stench." If there is a linger-
So ends a powerful story about a short but ing stench it is in the columns of National Observer and its view on an
decisive war, described in fascinating style, by a incident tragic enough without causing it to be a cause of endless
commentator turned reporter. "The Sun Stood Still" hatred.
is excellent reporting, brilliant writing, magnificent
It is never too late to give up our prejudices.
—Henry David Thoreau in 'Walden'
observation of an important era in modern history.

Noted Scholars Secured to Address
Four Sessions of Midrasha Institute

To open the institute on March
21 (Thursday) Dr. Raphael Patai,
director of research at the Theo-
dor Herzl Institute, will discuss
"The Rise of Islam."

Kosygin Says Nyet to British Premier on Possibility of J ewish Emigration;
Thousands of Jews Are Reported Still Being Persecuted in Arab Countries

By Philip
Slomovitz

MacLeish's Masterpiece: The Shalom
Spelling Peace in Land, in Soul

Concluding the series on April
10, Joel Carmichael will discuss
the current situation in the Middle
East and what the prospects are
for a rapprochment between Israel
and the Arab nations. Carmichael,
a specialist in current affairs and
their historical background, is the
author of "The Death of Jesus,"
"A Short History of the Russian
Revolution," and "The Shaping of

THE DETROIT JEWISH NEWS

the Arabs."
Although the series is tradition-
ally held on Wednesday evenings,
this year, to avoid conflict with
another major event in the com-
munity, the first lecture is sched-
uled for Thursday evening.
Announcing plans for the Mi-
drasha Institute, also known as the
Mina and Theodore Bargm an
Memorial Lectures, Louis LaMed,
chairman of the Midrasha board
of directors, named Julius Har-
wood as chairman of the institute
planning committee, which includes
Mesdames Eileen Berris, Matilda
Rubin, Evelyn Linden and Rose
Schiller; and Lawrence Crohn,
Gordon Ginsberg, Jack Malamud,
Irving Pokempner, Jay Rosen-
shine and Edwin Shifrin.
There is no charge for the series
but advance registration is neces-
sary. For information call the UHS,
DI 1-3407.

American Jewish Historical Society
Acquires Noted Lincoln Document

The American Jewish Historical
Society has acquired an autograph
album containing the signatures of
Abraham Lincoln, his cabinet and
official family, and many members
of the United States Congress in
1863 and 1864.

The volume, bound in red
morocco, has some 270 signatures
including those of his private secre-
taries, John G. Nicolay and John
Hay, as well as that of a former
law partner in Springfield, Ill.,
John T. Stuart.

The album has been presented
by the firm of Philp and Solomons
of Washington, to women em-
ployees of the Treasury Depart-
ment who secured the signatures
and auctioned the book at a fair
given in 1864 for the benefit of
the United States Sanitary Corn-
mission.
Philp and Solomons were book-
sellers and stationers in Washing-
ton whose business establishment
served as a meeting place for local
intellectuals and writers. The firm
supplied most of the stationery

for the House of Representatives

in

1864 and 1865. It was in its
photographic gallery that the last

known photograph of Abraham
Lincoln was taken four days be-
fore his assassination.
Little is known of Franklin
Philp, but his partner, Adolphus
S. Solomons, achieved fame in sub-
sequent years as a prime mover
in the founding of the American
Red Cross, a founder of the Jew-
ish Protectory and Aid Society,
and of the Russian Jews Immigra-
tion Aid Society. He was acting
president of the Jewish Theological •
Seminary Association when it was
reorganized into the Jewish Theo-
logical Seminary of America. Of-
fered the post of governor of the
District of Columbia by President
Ulysses S. Grant, Solomons re-
fused stating that his observance
of the Sabbath would interfere
with official duties.
The album supplements a large
collection of Solomons' personal
papers now on deposit in the Lib-
rary of the American Jewish His-

torical Society.

i

LONDON (JTA)—Prime Minis-
ter Harold Wilson indicated he had
taken up with Premier Kosygin
and other Soviet leaders, during
his visit to Moscow last month, the
question of emigration of Russian
Jews to Israel and that he had re-
ceived a negative response.
The prime minister disclosed
this phase of his Soviet talks in a
letter to Sir Barnett Janner, a
member of parliament and for-
mer chairman of the Board of
Deputies of British Jews.
_Wilson wrote to Sir Barnett in
response to a letter from the
Jewish leader. Sir Barnett re-
called in his letter that "a num-
ber of families" had been re-
united in Israel "through your
interventions in past years." He
asked the prime minister about
"the outcome of any approaches
you were able to make this
time."
The prime minister said, in his
reply, that he had raised with the
Soviet premier and other Soviet
leaders "the points you made"
about the treatment of the Jews in
the Soviet Union, the provision of
kosher meat and matzo and print-
ing facilities for Jewish books "but
there was no change in the Soviet
position."
The prime minister recalled that
he had informed Sir Barnett, prior
to his latest visit to Moscow, that
the restrictions on emigration from
the Soviet Union to Israel "would
be a difficult subject to press in
the present tense situation in the
Middle East" and that "it became
clear from my discussion with the
Soviet leaders that the fears I ex-
pressed to you were justified and
that there will be little hope of re-
consideration at this time of this
question."
The prime minister added that,
as before, reunion of families in in-
dividual cases was taken up during
his Moscow visit and that "I ar-
ranged that this matter would
continue to be dealt with through
normal diplomatic channels, i.e.,
through our ambassador discuss-

ing each individual case with the
Soviet minister of foreign affairs."
(A Ukrainian author whose
viciously anti-Semitic book, Juda-
ism Without Embellishment,
caused such an international up-
roar that his book was denounced
in the Soviet press several years
ago, is one of several public lec-
turers honored in a recent action
by the Supreme Soviet of the
Ukrainian Soviet Republic, it was
reported here.
(Pravda Ukrainy, the official
organ of the Ukrainian Communist
Party, listed in its Jan. 20 issue a
decree of the Supreme Soviet, be-
stowing the honors on behalf of the
Znanie Society, the society for the
spreading of atheism. Trofim K.
Kychko, who was temporarily in
disgrace after his book was de-
nounced not only by non-Commu-
nist critics but also by Western
Communist parties, received a
"diploma of the Presidium of the
Supreme Soviet."
(Kychko emerged from obscurity
after the June war with a Nazi-like
article about Israel and Zionism.
The accolade was viewed here as
in effect restoring him to official
favor.)
A leader of the World Jewish

Congress declared here last
weekend that thousands of Jews
in Arab countries continue to suf-
fer imprisonment, persecution
and maltreatment in the after-
math of last June's Arab-Israel
war and that many of the Arab
governments have rejected at-
tempts by the International Red
Cross to intervene on their be-
half.
Dr. Solomon Gaon, vice presi-
dent of the WJC's British section,
made the charges in an address at
the opening of the organization's
15th biennial conference. Hundreds
of Jews, he said, were still de-
tained in Egyptian prisons where
they are subject to mistreatment
and even torture.
Considerable Jewish property
has been confiscated by the Egyp-
tian government, and many Jews
have been dismissed from their
jobs, Dr. Gaon said. Some Jews'
have been expelled from Egypt but
were forced to leave their families
behind.
In Syria, Dr. Gaon said, the gov-
ernment has not only banned Jew-
ish emigration but has forbidden
Jews to leave the Damascus city
limits. The Red Cross has been for-
bidden to investigate. Syria has a

THE DETROIT JEWISH NEWS

Jewish population of 3,600.
In Iraq, where there are still
3,000 Jews, many were arrested
after the June war, about 39 fami-
lies have been detained, and the
government has banned emigra-
tion while refusing to allow the
Red Cross to interview Jews. In
all of the Arab countries, Dr. Gaon
said, the press and radio continue
to wage campaigns of incitement
against the Jews.

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Friday, February 9, 1968-3

Study Enforcing
of UN Declaration
on Human Rights

UNITED NATIONS, N. Y. (JTA)
—The United Nations Human
Rights Commission, which will be-
gin a five-week session on March
5, will consider measures for
speedy implementation of the
United Nations declaration on
elimination of all forms of racial
discrimination, according to the
2? point agenda made public here.
The commission will consider pro-
posals for dealing with Nazism and
racial intolerance made by its
Subcommission on Prevention of
Discrimination and Protection of
Minorities.
The Ukrainian representative on
the commission, Petre E. Nedbailo,
this year's chairman, was expected
to make a major issue out of the
agenda item on measures against
Nazism and racial intolerance and
to direct a sharp attack against
West Germany because of the re-
cent spectacular electoral suc-
cesses of the neo-Nazi National
Democratic Party. In a memoran-
dum prior to the commission meet-
ing, the Ukrainian delegate warn-
ed of the need for "new effective
measures" for the eradication of
Nazism and militarism, and for
new measures "to avert the neo-
Nazi danger."
The commission will consider
plans for observance of the year
1968 as International Year for
Human Rights as proclaimed by
the General Assembly. The as-
sembly decided that this year
allould be devoted to intensive na-
tional and international efforts to
ensure human rights and to mark
PrOgress made thus far in their

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