Primary Concern (Vol. 49, Issue 5)

In the upcoming Presidential primary elections, several candidates are seeking the Democratic nomination. The only candidates who have expressed their position towards Israel are George McGovern, who supports a separate Palestinian state, and the Rev. Jesse Jackson, whose position is well known.

Former Vice President Walter E. Mondale, currently the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination, has been vague in formulating his views on the complex Middle Eastern situation and on U.S.-Israeli relations. This is a major cause for concern, in light of the information revealed in Mayor Edward Koch's book, Mayor, that former Secretary of State Cyrus Vance acknowledged that the Carter administration, if reelected, would have sold out the State of Israel. Is it not conceivable that Mondale, who was part of that administration, presumably supported its policies?

It is imperative that Mr. Mondale begin to articulate his thoughts and policies regarding this most vital issue, We suggest that the University invite Mr. Mondale to be the keynote speaker at the Yeshiva University Commencement Exercises on June 4, 1984. This would enable the former Vice President to clarify his position vis-a-vis Israel for the entire Jewish community.