Israel’s Independence Day was celebrated widely here today with official diplomatic receptions, a proclamation by Mayor John V. Lindsay, special assemblies conducted by Zionist and other Jewish organizations, and statements pledging continued support for Israel in its struggle for peace with its Arab neighbors, issued by leaders of many Jewish organizations.
Two official Israeli receptions were conducted, respectively, by Ambassador Gideon Rafael, Israel’s permanent representative at the United Nations, and Michael Arnon, Israel’s Consul-General in New York. Leading U.N. diplomats representing virtually every member state of the United Nations, except the Arabs, attended the reception conducted by Ambassador Rafael, at the headquarters of the America-Israel Cultural Foundation, Mr. Arnon’s reception drew the participation of nearly all foreign consuls in New York as well as leading personalities in New York, Jewish and non-Jewish.
At 3 o’clock this afternoon, Mayor Lindsay conducted a ceremony in his office at City Hall, issuing his official proclamation, setting today aside as “Israel Independence Day.” Participating in that ceremony were, among others, Mr. Arnon, Rabbi Israel Miller, chairman of the American Zionist Council; Paul Goldman, AZC vice-chairman, and Harry Steinberg, executive director. At the same time, a joint celebration of Israel’s anniversary was conducted by the Jewish Agency-American Section and the American Zionist Council, under the sponsorship of Mrs. Rose L. Halprin, chairman of the Jewish-Agency-American Section and Rabbi Miller.
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