Subjects: Communists

An Open Letter to Brezhnev

By

Begin writes an open letter to Leonid Brezhnev, the first secretary of the Communist Party in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. In this letter, Begin writes about his and the Jewish people’s relationship with Russia throughout the years. Ultimately, he explains that the purpose of his open letter is to discuss a false report the journalists’ union posted about Deir Yassin. He is frustrated that the Etzel is portrayed as a gang, when it was really a liberation organization. Begin argues that the Soviet Union is changing facts so that “white has become black and black has become white.” He points out that leaders during the time of Etzel believed that a Jewish State should exist. He briefly mentions his disgust towards the verdicts of the Leningrad trials and in his conclusion says that Russian justice is actually unjust.

Begin – Rogers Clash Over U.S. Peace Plan

By

This article summarizes and quotes Begin’s address to the Knesset, with William Rogers present, arguing against the Roger’s Plan. He argues that 97% of the Knesset rejects the Roger’s plan because it would allow for Israeli cities to be vulnerable to Arab shelling. Begin argues that the plan gives Arabs everything. He also reminds Rogers that Israel is the only obstacle preventing a Russian invasion into the region. The article concludes by quoting Begin from the Israel Radio, in which Begin said that Israel is still far from peace, and the U.S. supporting the Roger’s Plan does not help.

We Bow Our Heads to You

By

Begin expresses his praise towards Jews living in Communist Russia. He says: “without the slightest exaggeration that in our day they are the bravest of all of those fighting for human freedom and dignity.” He describes that returning to Judaism, learning Hebrew, and having the dream to return to Zion keep their souls safe from communists. Furthermore, he says that Jewry’s moral hegemony belongs to Russian Jewry. Begin mentions the torture inflicted by the Communists and that bravery is infective. He also mentions that fear is infective and reflects on Jewish fear during the Holocaust. He claims that this fear no longer exists. With perseverance, Russia eventually will have to permit Russian Jews to immigrate to Israel.

Make Conversion Easier

By

Begin speaks to the Knesset about Jewish and other nationalities in Israel. He emphasizes that one does not need to have to be Jewish to be a free citizen with equal rights in Israel. He also emphasizes that there is not a separation between Jewish nationhood and religion. Begin starts his speech showing that there can be a democratic State consisting of different nationalities. Because of Jewish history, Israel is sensitive to minorities living in Israel. Furthermore, Begin wants to prove that Judaism is far from racist. Then he shares that Herzl understood the intertwining between Jewish nationhood and religion. Begin points out that this connection can also be seen in the Bible. Begin argues that assimilation and intermarriage affects who is a Jew. There are people who are connected to Judaism, but are not considered Jewish. For the sake of these people, he argues, conversion should be made easier.

Begin Tells Israel Exactly Where Herut Stands

By

Begin addresses the national council of the Herut Movement and focuses on the Labor Party’s move of taking peace decisions that are contrary to the lines of policy accepted by both the Knesset and the Government of National Unity. Begin first speaks about the Russia-Egypt relationship. He argues that Israel’s enemies will be defeated and that it is a duty for the nation to settle in land gained from the Six-Day War. Furthermore, the National Unity Government should be supporting this. He shifts to speak about the costs and benefits of Gahal both leaving and remaining in the Government of National Unity. He concludes that Herut stands for the Jewish people’s right to Israel, and “there can be no division between a peace treaty and a condition for security.”