Since that program was first announced. tension in the Near East has mounted and the Committee on Foreign Affairs has wisely recommended a larger amount for the Near East. In my view. the committee has proposed an equitable formula. Aside from recommending economic assistance to small nations of the Near East. the committee has earmarked $50.000.000 for the resettlement of the Arab refugees and $50.000.000 for the relief and resettlement of the refugees who have been coming into Israel. This is but a small fraction of the total cost. Israel estimates that her relief and resettlement program for 1 year costs approximately $500.000.000. The proposals of the House committee are commended by their realism. their equity. their concern for a major humanitarian problemthe resettlement of the homeless. Were we not compelled to devote so much of our substance to military and defense needs. I am sure that we would have increased the amount for economic and refugee aid in this underdeveloped region. I am frank in stating a further increase is justified. or further appropriations in the near future. And yet. in a very real way. this allocation for resettlement must be considered as a sound and effective contribution to our defense program. The resettlement of the Arab refugees will go a long way to end tension and bitterness in the area and to strengthen the economies of the Arab States. The resettlement of the Jewish refugees will greatly stimulate the industrial and agricultural output of the new State. and enhance its potential contribution. in manpower and materiel. to the defense of the Near East. Israel can be relied upon to play a major role in that cause. The Near East is in danger.
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refugee refugees