No Basis for Despair

Despite Israel's serious political and economic position, Begin assures the public that there is no cause for pessimism or despair. He blames the leadership of the Labor Alignment for the current crisis. Likud's philosophy, Begin explains, aims to achieve peace by making it clear to Israel's neighbors that "they have no possibility of destroying the State of Israel." Begin gives an example of honest leadership from the Tanach, about the spies that Moses sent, one from each of the twelve tribes, to the land of Canaan. Upon returning, they reported a land flowing with milk and honey, but the inhabitants were strong, and the cities large and fortified. One of the spies, Caleb, said "Let us go up at once and occupy it, for we are well able to overcome it." Begin uses this example of bravery and leadership in facing the challenges that lie ahead for Israel, but reminding the public that Israel is a strong nation that is capable of overcoming any obstacle in its way.