Subjects: Security

My Plan for Peace

By

Begin discusses Israel’s plan for peace and the different obstacle Begin has faced in the process. The first part of the peace plan focuses on Palestinian self-rule in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip. Begin then talks about Israel’s peace plan with Egypt, specifically regarding the Sinai Peninsula. In order to give up this land, it must be demilitarized so wars do not reoccur. However, while Anwar Sadat and Begin agreed that the Egyptian army will remain about 200 kilometers from the international boundary, the Egyptian War Minister presented their army being only 40 kilometers from the boundary. This brings Begin to talk about Israeli settlements and how they strengthen Israel’s national security. Then Begin questions the U.S.’s change in opinion about Israel’s peace proposal. He mentions the strong relationship he has with Sadat and then hints of anti-Semitism were published. He closes with still having hopes for peace.

PM Begin at a Briefing at Blair House, Washington

By

Begin discussed the obstacles in the peace process, as well as the autonomy proposal, at a press conference at Blair House, Washington. He then spoke about the security situation in Judea and Samaria and the Gaza Strip, citing the Coastal Road massacre two weeks prior to the briefing and the Yom Kippur War as examples. He later addressed the Operation Litani’s casualties in Lebanon, the implementation of Resolution 242, and his resignation from the cabinet in 1970.

Israel Will Not Submit to Threats

By

Begin talks about a series of events regarding the peace process with Egypt. First Begin shares that Begin made it clear that Israel absolutely rejected what Sadat stated he demanded from Israel. Begin continues to say that Israel believes in free negotiations without any prior conditions. He mentions that when Sadat came to Jerusalem and spoke to the Knesset, it was a historic event. Begin shifts to talk about Israel’s peace plan, which Jimmy Carter and his advisors deemed fair. Begin then shares his positive reflections on his visit to Ismailia, including the fact that they “parted in warm friendship.” Begin and Sadat agreed to have two committees, one to negotiate military and the other for political matters. After leaving Ismailia on a seemingly positive note, the controlled Egyptian press wrote anti-Semitic slurs. He concludes by saying Israel and its Arab neighbors should be seen as equals because that is in the direction of peace.

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

By

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.

No Quick Formula for M.E. Problems

By

In an interview, Begin discusses different topics regarding the peace process with Egypt and other Arab nations. Begin argues that self-determination does not mean independent statehood and Israel would not accept Palestinian statehood. He also says that although Palestinians will have free political activity, Israel will not allow an organization who wants Israel destroyed. Regarding which nations will have control over the West Bank and Gaza, Begin says that although the land belongs to the Jewish people, there are other claims. Begin strongly argues that settlement building in the West Bank and Sinai should not be viewed as detrimental to the peace talks. Begin says that the peace process is moving, and it’s important that there is patience. The last question was about Likud members voting against Begin’s peace plan. Begin responds by saying he was hurt, but will still pursue his plan.