Subjects: Government

The Inalienable Right of the Jewish People to Eretz Israel

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Begin argues against the claim that Zionism equals not only racism, but also extremism. He explains that Zionism is suddenly seems to be extreme because Zionists do not want to have Arafat in control of “the heart of Western Eretz Israel.” Then he shifts to talk about the error the Government has made with the new slogan of “if they recognize us, we’ll recognize them.” Additionally, when Israel argued that they would not participate in the UN Security Council sessions if the PLO participates, there was the claim that Israel’s reaction was emotional and extremist. However, Begin points out how the UN resolutions 212 and 194 are the formula for destroying Israel. Therefore, it should not be seen as extremism when wanting to protect Israel from destruction. Towards the end he mentions that it is self-destructive for Jews accepting the term Palestinian and believing that Arabs in Nazarath waving a Palestinian flag is merely self-expression.

A Blow for Democracy

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Begin focuses on Yitzchak Rabin’s undemocratic stand that the chairman of the Jewish Agency (the Zionist Organization) must be part of the Labor Party. Party membership is the important factor, not valuable qualifications and experience. Begin gives examples showing that this has not happened in other democratic countries. Begin talks about Labor Party spokesmen’s reactions when a candidate for the Chairman of the Jewish Agency chose to not enter his candidacy in the name of a political party. They identified him as being part of Likud and said they would do their best to prevent his election. Begin argues that by having party membership be the important factor for the position as chairman is “a blow against democracy in Israel.”

They Misled the Nation

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Begin explains the happenings with the potential interim agreement with Egypt. Israel was frequently told that if they retreat from land, there would be three years of quiet with Egypt. However, Begin explains that the latter part of the agreement is not taken seriously by Egypt or the United States. Additionally, Ismail Fahmi argued that if Israel does not retreat, it will be a sign of aggression and therefore, Egypt will have a right to defend itself. Furthermore, it was confirmed that any agreement would be annulled if Israel attacks Syria. Even though there is tension between Egypt and Syria, they will join forces against Israel. Although Anwar Sadat has said that he does not want to destroy Israel, his demands for Israel returning to the 1967 lines and “restoring the legitimate rights of the Palestinians” would do just that. Based on the interim agreements process, Begin envisions “important battles for the security of the nation and its future in Eretz Israel.”

The Voice of the People Will be Heard

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Begin disagrees with the Government’s actions regarding interim agreements with Egypt. As soon as the Government receives pressure and threats they give in. Kissinger says Israel is stubborn and that the “stalemate is intolerable and jeopardizes world peace.” Begin argues that the U.S. is threatening Israel with an oil embargo if it does not retreat from Abu Rodeis and the Gidi and Mitla passes. Additionally, Egypt does not show any signs for wanting peace with Israel. Even under these circumstances, Begin believes that the Government should stay strong and not react. By reacting, it will encourage more pressure and threats Begin also talks about the Israeli demonstrations against the Government’s actions. Begin believes that such demonstrations show that Israel is a true democracy.

Israel’s Right to National Security

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Begin does not focus on Israel’s right to exist, but rather Israelis’ existence as a right. He believes that Israel’s existence is a right and it is Israel’s responsibility for its existence. For example, during the Six-Day War, Israel wanted assistance from U.S., but did not want the U.S. to be responsible for the existence of Israel. Begin shifts to talk about the common threat of communism and how this provides partnership opportunities for Israel with other countries. Towards the end he talks about the danger of using the term “Palestinians.” Therefore, for Israel’s safety, the term “Israeli Arabs” should be used. He closes with saying a ceasefire and direct negotiations for peace treaties will allow Jews and Arabs to live freely together in Israel.