Source: Personal Archive

Why the Irgun Fought the British

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During a visit to Britain, Begin responds to an op-ed in “The Times” accusing him and Etzel of being terrorists and of carrying out a massacre at Dir Yassin. Begin is willing to speak about the revolt; however, the British government owes the Jews an explanation for its refusal to allow the rescue of Jews during the Holocaust. Etzel fighters fought valiantly and morally, trying to avoid civilian casualties and giving warnings of their attacks beforehand. After the British were defeated and the Arabs attacked and carried out massacres. Etzel initially resisted counter-attacking, but eventually took the offensive after their pleas for peace went unanswered. To relieve the siege on Jerusalem, Etzel and Lechi conquered Dir Yassin. Etzel gave advance warning for civilians to leave, forfeiting the element of surprise. The battle was intense, resulting in many casualties on both sides. Begin and Etzel regretted all civilian casualties, but maintain that no massacre took place.

Letter to Friends

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A short, handwritten letter thanking friends for being faithful during trying times and providing moral strength to the Etzel. Better times lie ahead.

Of politics and law

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After both the Government and the Knesset take stands against withdrawing from any territory without a peace agreement, making it the lawful duty of the Government to exercise the will of the Knesset in this matter, the Government agrees in principle, if not in practice to withdraw from the Suez Canal after negotiations with the USA over the reopening of the Canal. In return the USA promises not to pressure Israel to make further territorial concessions. Begin says that this is a betrayal of public trust and a violation of articles 3 and 15 of the Basic Laws: the Government. He also calls it a violation of the Knesset’s confidence in the Government. Begin considers the discussion with the Americans on the subject, after four years of steadfastly holding the position of not one millimeter of withdrawal without a peace treaty, to be detrimental to Israel because concessions, regardless of promises to the contrary, are sure to lead to more concessions.