Subjects: Greater Land of Israel

On The Forfeiture of Rights

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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.

What are the Facts Behind Jerusalem’s Two Terrible Hours

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Begin discusses his frustration with the Government’s responses to a recent attack in Jerusalem. First Begin criticizes Pinchas Lavon, the Minister of Defense. He explains Lavon’s mistakes and what he could have done to prevent the surprise attack. Additionally, Begin speaks about Moshe Sharret’s leadership and how the Government is killing its own nation in a sovereign way. Then Begin shifts to address multiple opportune moments Israel could have liberated more of the Homeland and ended “senseless bloodshed.” Begin concludes by comparing Israel’s Government to the Greek character Calipides.

The Time Has Come For Action

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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.'”

A Prayer–And A Call To Duty

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After accepting the title of being the commander of Betar, Begin addresses the world Betar conference. Begin speaks about the first Rosh Betar, Ze’ev Jabotinsky. Then he speaks about the first members of Betar—their passion led to the successful revolt in liberating the Homeland. Begin shifts from the past to speak in deep sorrow about the present-day situation. He argues that what is or isn’t done in the present will affect the future. Then he speaks about the lack of immigration and poor education that is given to the youth. Begin explains that the youth are being taught that “any effort to regain the soil of its ancestors is ‘treif'”. He also argues against the claim that the army is where youth learn to fight and receive education. Begin shares that the army depends on the character of the youth prior to their army service. Begin concludes that Betar has a duty to properly educate the youth, because the future of the country depends on them.

A Salute–And A Pledge

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Begin speaks at an Irgun Yahrzeit service, which took place at a cemetery in Safad. He first informs the fallen soldiers that Israel has gained independence from the British Mandate. Therefore, they have not fallen in vain. He shares that he is with other fighting brethren and recognizes that all of the fallen soldiers “fulfilled the command of LAMUT O LICHBOSH ET Ha-Har (‘to die or to take the mountain’).” Begin acknowledges that the conversation between the fallen soldiers is not bitter, but rather joyous. In his hope for Jerusalem being fully liberated, he concludes his tribute with the biblical passage that emphasizes the importance of Jerusalem.