Acknowledgement Quote by Abba Eban
“Nobody does Israel any service by proclaiming its 'right to exist.' Israel's right to exist, like that of the United States, Saudi Arabia and 152 other states, is axiomatic and unreserved. Israel's legitimacy is not suspended in midair awaiting acknowledgement… There is certainly no other state, big or small, young or old, that would consider mere recognition of its 'right to exist' a favor, or a negotiable concession.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: United Nations General Assembly, 1965
The statement argues that a state's right to exist is inherent and not dependent on external recognition, asserting that such acknowledgment is a basic, non‑negotiable fact.
In simple terms: A state's existence is a given, not a favor.
Key Takeaway
Recognize inherent rights of nations.
Themes
politics
sovereignty
recognition
Mood
analytical
assertive
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- diplomacy
- policy making
- human rights advocacy
- education
Key Concepts
international law
realism
Questions to Reflect On
- Should recognition be unconditional?
- What other factors affect a state's legitimacy?
A Different Perspective
Recognition alone may not resolve deeper conflicts.
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