Subjects: Diplomacy

Statement at a Press Conference 19.09.1948

By

A press release by Begin as head of the Opposition party, Tenuat Haherut, after the assassination of a UN representative by radical Zionists in Jerusalem. Tenuat Haherut does not participate in the unelected government of the new state but still feels responsible for the well-being and future of the state and therefore must comment on recent events. Britain bears indirect responsibility for the assassination by discrediting the UN as an international organization. The Provisional Government of Israel also bears indirect responsibility for the assassination because it acts cowardly towards the world but tyrannical towards Jews within its borders, both of which are causing the rise of a new underground. Tenuat Haherut is against the killing and the rise of a new underground, and calls on all Jews in Israel to unite against their enemies and for the world to treat Israel justly.

Beigin Outlines Policy In Interview with “New York Times” Correspondent

By

In the interview, Begin discusses Etzel’s perspective regarding the State’s present situation and his policies to secure Israel’s future. It is first mentioned that Etzel is transitioning from a military to a political organization. Etzel plans to use ballots, not bullets, to gain political power. Begin includes that Etzel members know that arms should only be used for external enemies, despite of the Altalena situation. He argues that Israel’s existence is at stake with the current boundaries. Politically, Begin says that the Etzel will continue to insist the borders of Israel to be its historical boundaries. Etzel believes in reciprocity, and therefore, Britain is still an enemy of Israel. Additionally, Etzel wants to cooperate with nations that believe in Israel’s freedom and sovereignty. Regarding national policy, Etzel is willing to work with the Stern Group and any group that cooperates with Etzel’s “territorial and immigration aspirations.”

The Flag of Israel Will Yet Fly On Both Sides of the Jordan

By

In this broadcast, Begin expresses that it was difficult to establish the State and will be even more work to maintain its existence. Therefore, because of Israel’s enemies, it is crucial to have a stronger army. He speaks about key foreign and national policies. He shares that Etzel will only remain underground in the Land of Israel that has yet to be liberated. He concludes that Israel is in the heat of battle and that she must not retreat.

Jerusalem Our Capital

By

An article by Begin about Jerusalem during the summer of the War of Independence. Begin begins by waxing poetic about Jerusalem and the sacrifices that were necessary to defend and secure the city. By not falling, Jerusalem kept the rest of Israel from falling as well and gave hope to the Jewish fighters. The UN will meet to discuss giving Jerusalem to Transjordan or to make it an international city, neither of which must be allowed to occur. Jerusalem belongs to the Jews. The fight for Jerusalem and the survival of the state still rages both on the battlefield and in the political arena. The greatest victory was driving the British from the land, but they continue to be an obstacle by being largely responsible for the Bernadotte plan, which is very similar to the rejected Peel plan of 1937. Despite these obstacles, Israel will be victorious and claim its entire historic homeland. Then a free, equal, and just society will live in Israel.

Conversation Between the Charirman of the UNSCOP and Menachem Begin

By

A secret meeting between representatives of UNSCOP and Begin in August, 1947. They discuss what the Irgun is, its political philosophy, and its responses to various proposed compromises. Begin is adamant that the Jews have the right to control all the land and must do so. The Jewish refugees must be repatriated in Palestine. The British are the problem, both in direct illegal actions like military courts and in stirring up Arab opinion against the Jews.