Fulbright, J. William

Description

-49- must make it unmistakably clear to the Soviet Union that it intends to defend its* vital interests in the Middle East against encroachment by the Soviet Union." The statement then calls for "affirmative action" -- by which is apparently meant more Phantom jets and other military supplies for Israel -- "to avoid the danger of a confrontation through Soviet misinterpretation of our past restraint as a sign of weakness." 13 The language of this statement has a familiar ring; it is of Vietnam vintage. Their vital interests are suddenly identified as our vital interests; their security becomes a matter of our "national will;" their regional conflict is identified with our global crusade against communism -- __________________________________________ * Italics supplied. 13. American Jewish Committee, "Statement on the Middle East," May 17, 1970.

From Collection

J. William Fulbright Speaks

Record Contributed By

University of Arkansas