On the recordMay 20, 2008
in 1948, the United Nations established the Nation of Israel so that a dispossessed and tyrannized people might have the opportunity to return to their historic homeland. Now, 60 years later, what does Israel stand for in our world community of nations? It stands proudly as the first democracy in the Middle East and the first multiethnic society in the region to proclaim the rights of fundamental liberty for all of its inhabitants. Israel's commitment to freedom is evidenced by the fact that over 20 percent of its citizens are Arab, but freedom of worship and freedom of speech is granted to all. Congratulations to Israel and all Israelis on the first 60 years of the modern era. May Israelis enjoy at least another 600.
Source
govinfo.gov
