Response to SOmething to think of
The following is for whomever questioned the validity of my
statement about Britain and the creation of Israel. This is taken
from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign affairs (mfa.gov.il). I thought
anyone debating the question of Israel/Palestine would already
be familiar with the declaration. Behind many great colonial
atrocities lies the British empire - and yes I mean Belfast as well.
The Balfour Declaration
November 2, 1917
During the First World War, British policy became gradually
committed to the idea of establishing a Jewish home in
Palestine (Eretz Yisrael). After discussions in the British Cabinet,
and consultation with Zionist leaders, the decision was made
known in the form of a letter by Arthur James Lord Balfour to Lord
Rothschild. The letter represents the first political recognition of
Zionist aims by a Great Power.
Foreign Office
November 2nd, 1917
Dear Lord Rothschild,
I have much pleasure in conveying to you, on behalf of His
Majesty's Government, the following declaration of sympathy with
Jewish Zionist aspirations which has been submitted to, and
approved by, the Cabinet.
"His Majesty's Government view with favour the establishment in
Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use
their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object,
it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may
prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish
communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status
enjoyed by Jews in any other country."
I should be grateful if you would bring this declaration to the
knowledge of the Zionist Federation.
Yours sincerely,
Arthur James Balfour
Created By: Claire O'Connor