Harry Truman, who was a Bible-believing Christian Zionist, defied the secretary of state he so admired, George C. Marshall, and won a place in Israel's history by recognizing the new state 11 minutes after it declared its independence in 1948.

In this quote, Elliott Abrams reflects on a pivotal moment in history, focusing on Harry Truman's decision to recognize the new state of Israel in 1948. Truman, described as a Bible-believing Christian Zionist, made the bold choice to support the creation of Israel, despite opposition from his Secretary of State, George C. Marshall, whom Truman greatly admired. This decision came just 11 minutes after Israel declared its independence, demonstrating Truman’s swift and decisive action.

The reference to Truman being a Christian Zionist suggests that his religious beliefs played a significant role in shaping his support for the creation of Israel. Zionism, which advocates for the establishment of a Jewish homeland, resonated with Truman due to his faith, influencing his stance on the Jewish state. His personal values and beliefs were key factors in his foreign policy, showing how deeply his faith impacted his decision-making.

Truman’s defiance of Marshall, a highly respected figure in the U.S. government, underscores the tension between personal conviction and political advice. Marshall, who was skeptical of recognizing Israel, believed it would lead to conflict in the Middle East. However, Truman’s decision to follow his own beliefs instead of the counsel of a trusted advisor cemented his place in Israel's history as a significant supporter.

Ultimately, Abrams’ quote highlights Truman’s role in the formation of Israel and how his personal beliefs, particularly his Christian Zionism, guided his foreign policy. The recognition of Israel shortly after its declaration of independence marked a turning point in U.S.-Israel relations and demonstrated the profound impact of Truman's moral and religious convictions on his actions as president.