Soviets Look to Arafat for a Base

An op-ed Begin wrote for the Jerusalem Post. Yasser Arafat is a frequent visitor and patron to the Soviet Union. He not only means to destroy Israel, but if he gets a state it is guaranteed to become a Soviet base in the Middle East, with a steady supply of airlifted modern arms from the USSR. This would be an existential threat to Israel, but it would also be a threat to the free world to have a Soviet base in such a strategically important region. No matter who Israel gives the land to, if it pulls out of Judea and Samaria the Arafat State and the Soviet base would result. Israel needs to make the west, especially the USA, understand the danger a Palestinian State would pose to them in addition to Israel. And the Jews and Israel have every right to the land of Israel.

U.N. Debates the Palestinian Lie

Begin focuses on which views are considered progressive and reactionary when talking about Arabs of Israel/Palestinians. He discusses how there are people who think that they are progressive for recognizing the Palestinian entity. This includes Jews and American professors. Begin believes, though, that their thoughts are hypocritical. He goes into detail about what this Palestinian entity does and what it means for the Israel. This entity, he argues, believes in using the right to fight by all means, including targeting women and children. Ultimately, it jeopardizes Israel’s future. Begin shifts to respond to the argument that not supporting the Palestinian entity means that he supports Israel ruling over Arabs. The argument continues saying that ruling over Arabs is a cancer for Israel. Begin remarks that he does not believe in ruling over Arabs, but rather living with them “in mutual tolerance.”

They Misled the Nation

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

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.

The Alternative to Surrender

Begin disagrees with the Israeli Government’s policy for moving the Sinai Peninsula frontline eastwards. He is frustrated with the U.S. pressuring Israel to believe that Anwar Sadat wants coexistence with Israel. Egypt only wants to have interim agreements with Israel and if Israel rejects the interim agreements, Egypt threatens to go to war with Israel. Even with this knowledge, the Government agrees to hand over “sources of fuel and the defensive Sinai passes.” Begin then shifts to talking about the U.S. involvement, specifically talking about Henry Kissinger. Begin believes that relations between Israel and the U.S. should not be based on U.S. ensuring the existence of Israel. Instead, the relationship should be based on true, mutual interests. In his conclusion, he says that the Israeli Government’s action has “shattered their credibility” and is inviting more pressure and threats from Egypt and the U.S.