The Kremlin’s Willing Slaves

In the “Herut” newspaper, Begin analyzes and criticizes communists, deeming them as willing slaves. He first shares his amazement in watching the Communist world following suit with Russia in the de-Stalinization campaign. He argues that as willing slaves, communists will do and believe whatever their leader tells them. Begin then shares a conversation he had with a Russian officer while he was a Russian political prisoner. Begin concludes that willingly being a slave is shameful for the slave and that he is thankful that he is a free man.

Honour, Liberty, Security

In his Rosh Hashanah message, Begin writes that it is crucial for Israel to fight so the nation can live with honor. He first describes how the world is divided in multiple political spheres and identifies that Herut believes Israel must aspire to be in the Sphere of Freedom. He then argues that the Government must reject mediation by the U.S. between Israel and its neighboring countries because it will not end in Israel’s favor. Then Begin speaks about Nasser’s hopes for Israel’s destruction. Begin shifts to share his disagreement of a statement made by a Cabinet member, in which the Cabinet member argues that Israel might become a second Warsaw ghetto if Ben Gurion is not in charge. Begin concludes that the country belongs to its citizenry and that they do not have to fear for what the future will hold.

The Honour of a Nation

Begin argues that “Israel must learn that a nation that surrenders its honor will lose more than honor.” He first gives an example of Poland holding onto its honor against Russia in a joint Russian-Polish announcement. Begin continues to provide examples of Israel’s unstable relationship with both Russia and Turkey. In both instances, Russia and Turkey recalled their ambassadors from Israel and Israel chose to not recall theirs from Russia and Turkey. It is crucial for Israel to recall their ambassadors from countries that recall theirs from Israel.

America Has Handed Africa Over to the Kremlin

Begin presents the international political zig-zag occurring between U.S., France, Britain, and Russia. Begin explains his confusion towards the different world powers unanimously agreeing that Israel should return land it gained from Egypt. He shares the irony of the U.S. policy being twofold—both anti-communism and anti-colonialism. Ultimately, the U.S. actions assist Russia. Because of the strong relationship between Russia and Egypt, the U.S. helped Nasser become a conqueror. Begin explains that Russia’s power will continue to grow and concludes that Israel must be courageous.

Menachem Begin’s Call for a Franco-Israel Alliance

During his visit to France, Begin addresses the French National Assembly. He first expresses his gratitude towards France’s support to Israel. Then he discusses one of Israel’s main threats: Nasser. He argues that Nasser isn’t just a threat for Israel, but also for Western Powers. Begin shifts to speak that France is responsible for preventing Nasser from ruling over Algeria. If France fails, then Israel will be completely surrounded by enemies. Begin also shares that the arms deal between Egypt and the Soviet Union that could easily lead to Egypt becoming a communist-military dictatorship. He reminds his audience of when the U.S. forcibly changed the regime in Guatemala to ultimately explain that Egypt is a serious threat to the Western Powers and action must be taken.