Subjects: France

Menahem Begin – Irgun Commander

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An interview Menachem Begin gave to the Herald Tribune in March 1947 and reprinted later for relevance to the formation of a provisional government in Israel. The IZL is prepared for a long and difficult struggle with the British. Though the IZL wants to end the policy of reprisals, it will continue the policy until its members are treated as combatants, even if it means hanging British soldiers if its own members are hanged. The IZL has had contact with Arabs in Palestine, though it has been limited. The IZL has plans to carry out attacks outside of Palestine. They do not favor but will not oppose the discussion of Palestine at the UN. The Soviet Union is against the idea of Jewish immigration to Israel from other countries but has a point in that some Jews seem to favor elements of British imperialism. The IZL is not Fascist because it is fighting for survival, is against totalitarianism, and is in favor of democracy and individual freedoms.

PM Begin in an Interview with Luxemburg Radio (Paris) in Jerusalem

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Begin addressed to the recently renewed negotiations with Egypt, amid anti-Semitic remarks expressed in the Egyptian press, in an interview with Luxemburg radio. He then went on to discuss the countries’ differing viewpoints on Israeli settlements in the Sinai Peninsula and the region’s demilitarization. Later, Begin discussed a variety of topics, including the autonomy proposal, the role of the United States in the negotiations, and his friendship with Sadat in the wake of Sadat’s hostile interview with October magazine. He then went on to discuss the Israel-France relationship, expressing a wish to see France’s hostile policy toward Israel end and the Franco-Israeli alliance renewed. Finally, Begin spoke about his election to the position of Prime Minister.

France’s M.E. Policy is Endangering Free World

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Begin discusses the difference between peace, and progress towards peace, and other policies such as “non-belligerance” or armistice, or truce. After explaining why Israel should not agree to go back to the borders agreed on in 1967, he proposes granting Palestinians the option to accept citizenship in Israel. He shares his opinions about the possibility of having a Soviet base in the Middle East, and how catastrophic that would be. He stresses how important peace is to Israel, and how much they wish to achieve this goal with Egypt and continue a friendly relationship with France.

Speech at Knesset in honor of the USA Bicentennial

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A speech Begin gave at the Knesset to commemorate the USA’s 200th anniversary. The American Revolution was a turning point in world history. Those who fight for freedom and justice do not believe in force, but they are still able to overcome the many and the strong through their moral values. Two hundred years later America is the most powerful nation and the primary force for freedom in the world. Begin asks that the US Ambassador to Israel move to Jerusalem permanently, and that America recognize and treat Israel as an ally like Israel recognizes and treats America. Israel knows all America has done to protect freedom around the world and throughout history, especially in World War Two. Begin also expresses admiration of the American Jewish community, the most powerful Diaspora Jewish community in nearly 2,000 years. Begin hopes that America will continue to protect the free world in the years to come.