Subjects: Golda Meir

Loyal Opposition – Positive Role in Israeli Politics

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An op-ed in the Jewish chronicle by Begin about the purpose of and need for an opposition in a democracy. So-called ‘one-party democracies’ are just autocracies called by a nicer name in the west for political expediency. Herut has had to do more than just oppose the government because of the unique threats and challenges Israel faces. Herut took the lead in several important policy initiatives, such as Israel’s alliance with France, the issue of Arab refugees from the War of Independence, and the issue of German scientists helping the Egyptians produce powerful and destructive weapons. It is also important for Herut to constantly seek to replace the government because otherwise it would allow Israel to become a “one-party democracy.” It is imperative that another party eventually win control of the government to allow democracy to work as it is supposed to.

The People Will Decide if Mapai is Fit to Rule

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Begin addresses the Knesset and focuses on Israel-Germany relationship. He first accuses the majority of the Knesset of acting undemocratically by accepting the proposal to not oblige Germany to provide Israel with arms. He also speaks about his concern of German scientists in Egypt, and the relationship between Western Germany and Egypt. Then Begin strongly expresses frustration in Knesset members supporting diplomatic relations with Germany. The crux of his argument is “If we are given the alternative: The State of Israel without peace with the Arabs, or peace with the Arabs without the State of Israel, we would choose the State without peace. Experience has taught us that lack of peace is painful and an anxiety. Lack of a State is a catastrophe.” Begin concludes that the people will decide who will rule Israel, and that it is clear that Mapai is not fit for that position.

Israel has Suffered National Setbacks

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In this article, Begin recounts the transgressions of Mapai and Ben Gurion and explains the deleterious effects they have had on Israel. Specifically, he mentions allowing German scientists to assist Egyptian weapons development unopposed; the Lavon Affair; and Ben Gurion’s acting as a tyrant in the Mapai party.

The German Scientists – A Call for Action

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Begin criticizes the Israeli government for not acting to deal with the growing threat of German scientists building missiles for the Egyptians. He cites this inaction as emboldening Germany to take greater steps in helping Egypt, which Begin says will destroy Israel if not checked.

Israel, Bonn and Nasser’s Nazis

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Begin sharply criticizes the Israeli government for continued inaction in the face of the growing threat of German missile scientists working for Egypt. In particular, he accuses the government of hiding from the Israeli public the extent of the threat.