AMERICA REBUKED

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32209, 30 January 1970, Page 13

AMERICA REBUKED

Arms Pledge Criticised (N.Z.P-A.-Reuter— Copyright) CAIRO, January 29. Egypt today rebuked President Nixon for assuring Jewish leaders that Israel would be supplied with American arms, if necessary, to maintain the balance of power in the Middle East. The chief Egyptian Government spokesman (Dr Esmat Abdel Meguid) told a press conference in Cairo that the pledge proved that the United States was not interested in a Middle East settlement “After President Nixons message ... we cannot but wonder: is it true that the United States is really trying to seek peace based on justice established in the Middle East? Unfortunately, the answer to this question is no.” said Dr Meguid. “Only a reversal of the present American policy could bring peace. The American leaders should consider whether Jewish votes mean more than establishing peace and security in the Middle East, and the protection of American interests in the area.” . The Israeli freighter Tamar reported to be carrying surplus United States arms to Israel, arrived quietly at Israel’s port city of Haifa today. She unloaded some cargo at the breakwater, but did not tie up at the port. Reporters were unable to determine the exact nature of the freight; according to the ship’s manifest, she was carrying 6000 tons of general cargo. The Tamar was reported six weeks ago to have taken on an Israel-bound shipment of United States military equipment at the Belgian port of Zeebruge.