Begin delivers a speech in Tel Aviv in regards to opposing the Government’s decision to withdraw forces from the Sinai Peninsula. He explains Herut’s four strategic principles: (1) do not wait until the enemy is ready; (2) right makes might; (3) liberate and remain; (4) grasp the opportune moment. Begin demands the Government to retreat their retreat.
On the eve of his departure from Israel for France, Begin is interviewed by the United Press News Agency of America. In this interview Begin shares Herut’s 4-point basis for peace talks with Egypt’s leader Nasser. These points are: 1. Egyptian evacuation of Gaza Strip; 2. Ending of sea blockade; 3. Cessation of hostile acts; 4. Reparations. There is also discussion about Israel’s relationship with Western Powers.
Begin criticizes Prime Minister Sharet sharing with Newsweek that Egypt has forfeited its right to remain in Gaza. Begin explains that if Sharet said Egyptians forfeited their right to remain in Gaza, then that means Sharet believes that Egyptians initially had a right to be in Gaza. The only reason why they no longer have that right is because of their attitude towards the Armistice agreement. Begin argues that “in order to have a right forfeited, there must originally be a right of existence” and although an occupation is a fact, it is not a right. Begin continues to argue that Egyptians invaded Eretz Israel to throw the Jews in the sea and since Sharet claims that this was their right then Sharet also claims Egypt’s right to invade the rest of Eretz Israel. Begin concludes that as the prime minister, Sharet should be protecting his citizens, whose lives are threatened by Egyptian forces occupying Gaza.
Begin writes about how the Anglo-American security plan threatens Israel’s future. He first mentions the rivalry between England and America regarding power in the Middle East. Begin explains that they have an agreed plan for Israel. Begin shifts to talk about Moshe Sharett’s determination to make peace with Israel’s enemies. Sharett involved the British and Americans, which led to the joint Anglo-American security plan. Begin continues to explain and argue against the security plan. Then Begin speaks about threats from America to refuse Israel aid, the “silver pistol.” He concludes with speaking about the recent loss of three youth at Mevo’ot Betar and Mevo’ot Betar’s song, “‘we shall not move from here.'” His final argument is that that song is an old song and the new song is “‘We shall move from here forward; we shall never retreat.'”
Begin compares and contrasts the America-Guatemala-Czech triangle to the Israel-Arab-American triangle. He first speaks about America’s active defense against Guatemala’s relationship with Czechoslovakia. When speaking about political asylum for a Guatemalan politician, he also shares that “Jewish opinion, both here and overseas, will not be able to remain indifferent if evil befalls [on] one of our people’s best friends.” Begin then speaks about the America-Guatemala-Czech and the Israel-Arab-American triangles in regards to weaponry, population differences, and possibility of attack. Begin speaks about communism verses capitalism. He shares that “Disraeli once said that nations are ruled either by force or by tradition.” His final point focuses on America’s role as a leader for the free world and that it is problematic for America to guide by force.
