Begin discusses the leadup to the Six-Day War, particularly the fact that the Arab nations believed their victory was assured. He also comments on some of the dangers Israel faced in delaying the war, and draws comparisons to the Arab reactions to the terror attack at Lod Airport.
A speech Begin gave in America in 1972. The world wants to forget, but Israel and the Jews will not forget how the Arab armies massed on Israel’s borders with the declared intention of destroying the Jewish State. Thankfully Israel was wise enough to launch a preemptive strike and come out of the war with relatively few casualties and more territory. There are those who say Israel should give back virtually all of the land, but doing so would put Israel’s population centers in the range of the rockets and artillery of the enemy. The PLO and similar organizations attempt to carry out a genocide of Jews, as evidenced by their attacks on civilians and by their own statements. But Jews should never be afraid any more. Israel spends nearly a third of its GNP on defense, and so needs the aid of American Jewry. With their help, Israel and world Jewry will be preserved for eternity.
Begin opposes an idea raised at a luncheon attended by Americans and Israelis. The idea, raised by American diplomats, was that Russia’s involvement had to do with the Israel-Arab conflict, and therefore, Israel was indirectly responsible for Russia’s actions. Begin points out that Israel is actually preventing Russia from gaining control of the Suez Canal. He argues that just how the Vietnam War cannot end quickly, the opening of the Suez Canal also needs to be a slow process. Therefore, he asks for the United States to slow down the talks about opening the Suez Canal. Begin states that Sadat does not actually want peace and based on his two terms for pace, he actually wants to liquidate Israel. In his conclusion, he talks about violence happening between Arabs and makes the argument that if they are ruthlessly fighting each other, it does not make sense for Israel to trust them.
Begin discusses the Government going against the Knesset’s decision in regards to retreating from the Suez Canal. Begin explains how the Government told the Government of the United States, in writing and verbally, that Israeli troops would retreat from the Suez Canal if the Canal was reopened to international shipping. Since the Government made pledges to maintain the decisions of the Knesset, Begin claims that the Government’s current actions are a breach to the basic law of the State. Begin then reflects on past situations and how he is in disbelief that after all this, the Government still considers withdrawing without a peace treaty. Begin remarks at the end that if Israel is not making good decisions, then there is no reason for the United States to make decisions considerate of Israel’s security.
In the interview, Begin discusses Gahal’s decision to be part of the potential Government of National Unity. The main reason why Gahal agreed is because of the “time of emergency and for a war of salvation.” Under usual circumstances, Begin would have recommended for Gahal not to agree to be part of the Government of National Unity, nor a limited coalition with the Alignment. Begin talks about the positive results of the Histadrut elections. The elections showed an increase in Gahal’s workers and representation. Additionally, Gahal gained popularity amongst the youth. Then the interview shifts to issues that Israel will be dealing with in the future. This includes: surrendering Sinai and the West Bank, Israeli law extending to land gained from Six-Day War, peace agreements with Arab nations, and Russia’s involvement in fighting against Israel.
