Eichmann Trial -- Session 1 -- Preliminary objections by Defense Counsel

Session 1. Begins as the court debates the relevance of the Eichmann letter. Dr. Servatius claims the letter is important to his case whereas Mr. Hausner asserts that the letter is irrelevant to the trial. The Judges discuss this matter amongst themselves. After much deliberation, the Judges make the first court decision: "We accept letter T/2 as an exhibit without expressing an opinion as to its value as proof." Hausner continues his speech by responding to Servatius's complaint regarding the lack of witnesses for the defense. Servatius previously stated that his case is hindered by the trial's location; no supportive witnesses for Eichmann were willing to appear in court for fear of being arrested while in Israel. Hausner claims he told Servatius that the prosecution would accept affidavits from pertinent witnesses to the defense despite the fact that Hausner would be unable to cross-examine. However, Servatius had yet to submit any affidavits and/or witnesses. Hausner then provides examples of past precedents established by foreign nations such as Britain, the United States, and Palestine, which countered Servatius's claim that Eichmann's kidnapping and trial venue were unethical. The tape ends as the court reaches the completion of Session one and adjourns for the day.