At a recent G8 meeting, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper insisted that the Group of Eight of the world’s top economies not endorse pre-1967 lines as a basis for negotiations between Israel and Palestinians.

B’nai B’rith International President Allan J. Jacobs, Honorary President Moishe Smith and Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin sent Harper a letter commending “the unswerving nature of your commitment to both Middle East peace and the security of Israel.”

The letter states: “B’nai B’rith International, which is proud of its presence in your country through B’nai B’rith Canada, strongly believes that direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority is the only prescription for lasting peace in the Middle East.”   

The letter continues: “We recall with admiration and appreciation the words of your landmark speech at the Ottawa Conference on Anti-Semitism last year: ‘When Israel, the only country in the world whose very existence is under attack—is consistently and conspicuously singled out for condemnation, I believe we are morally obligated to take a stand.’  You further pledged, ‘As long as I am Prime Minister, whether it is at the UN or the Francophonie or anywhere else, Canada will take that stand, whatever the cost.’”

The letter concludes by praising Harper as a “voice of moral clarity on an urgent international issue.  We welcome your strong leadership in the struggle to defend Israel’s security.”