Abba Eban

Abba Eban (Hebrew: אבא אבן; born Aubrey Solomon Meir Eban; February 2, 1915 – November 17, 2002) was an Israeli diplomat, politician, and scholar. He was renowned for his eloquence and mastery of the English language, which he frequently employed in his role as Israel's public face to the world.

Born in Cape Town, South Africa, and raised in England, Eban received his education at Cambridge University, where he studied classics and oriental languages. He served in the British Army during World War II and later joined the Jewish Agency for Palestine.

Eban played a crucial role in Israel's diplomatic efforts before and after its establishment in 1948. He served as Israel's first Ambassador to the United Nations from 1949 to 1959 and concurrently as Ambassador to the United States. He was a key figure in advocating for the Partition Plan at the UN and securing international recognition for the nascent state.

In the Israeli government, Eban held several ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Education and Culture (1960-1963) and Minister of Foreign Affairs (1966-1974). As Foreign Minister, he was instrumental in shaping Israel's foreign policy, particularly in the aftermath of the Six-Day War in 1967. He advocated for a negotiated settlement with Arab states based on land for peace.

After leaving government service, Eban remained a prominent voice on international affairs and Israeli politics. He taught at several universities and authored numerous books, including his autobiography. He is remembered as one of Israel's most articulate and influential diplomats and a powerful advocate for peace and understanding in the Middle East.