The Voice of Israel Author is Abba Eban, a four-letter name. Eban was an Israeli diplomat and politician who served as the country's Foreign Minister from 1966 to 1974. He was also Deputy Prime Minister from 1974 to 1977. He was a major figure in the development of Israel's foreign policy and was known for his eloquent speeches and writings. He was also a member of the Knesset, Israel's parliament, from 1959 to 1974.