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The
Balfour Declaration
During the First World
War, British policy became gradually committed to the
idea of establishing a Jewish home in Palestine (Eretz
Yisrael). After discussions in the British Cabinet, and
consultation with Zionist leaders, the decision was made
known in the form of a letter by Arthur James Lord
Balfour to Lord Rothschild. The letter represents the
first political recognition of Zionist aims by a Great
Power.
Foreign Office
November 2nd, 1917
Dear Lord Rothschild,
I have much pleasure in conveying to you, on behalf of
His Majesty's Government, the following declaration of
sympathy with Jewish Zionist aspirations which has been
submitted to, and approved by, the Cabinet.
"His Majesty's Government view with favour the
establishment in Palestine of a national home for the
Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to
facilitate the achievement of this object, it being
clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may
prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing
non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and
political status enjoyed by Jews in any other
country."
I should be grateful if you would bring this declaration
to the knowledge of the Zionist Federation.
Yours sincerely,
Arthur James Balfour
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