In a speech to the French fundraiser’s representatives, Begin stressed the importance of demilitarizing the Sinai Peninsula and sparing the settlements in the peace accord with Egypt, in order to maintain Israel’s national security. Later, He addressed the autonomy plan’s major principles, as well as the disagreement over Jerusalem’s division and Israel’s right to exist. Finally, he urged the audience to support Project Renewal.
In a TV interview, Begin discusses his relationship with Jimmy Carter and Anwar Sadat, specifically regarding peace in the Middle East. First, Begin talks about his successful visit with Carter. Then Begin talks about how he does not want peace with only Egypt, he wants Israel to be at peace with all of its neighbors. In regards to Jews living in Judea and Samaria, Begin said that they have a right to live there, just how Arabs from Judea and Samaria have a right to live in Israel. Begin talks about the consistent contact with Sadat. Begin states that Jerusalem will not be divided and will remain the Capital City for Israel. Then Begin talks about security and says that Israel will only rely on itself, not any international guarantees. Additionally, Begin says that regarding land, “We always said that everything is negotiable, except the destruction of Israel. Everything is negotiable.” Begin closes saying that meeting in Cairo is a great step towards peace.
Begin delivers a speech in response to Anwar Sadat’s address to the Knesset. He starts off briefly reflecting on past events to show that Israel has been dedicated to making peace with its neighbors since declaring independence. Then Begin shifts to agree that a peace treaty between Israel and Egypt should not put a wedge between Arab nations because Israel also wants peace with its other neighbors. He hopes that there will no longer be wars between Egypt and Israel and if there are disagreements between the countries, ambassadors will handle it. He shifts to expressing disagreement with Sadat’s statement that Israel took a foreign country. Then he talks about the importance of conducting negotiations respectfully so that there will eventually be a reached consent and thus, a signed peace treaty. Begin includes that he is open to negotiations with neighboring Arab countries and closes by quoting both the Bible and Koran.
A speech Begin addressed to the Egyptian people near the beginning of the peace process with Egypt. The two nations have been engaged in conflict since Egypt invaded Israel upon its declaration of independence. Egyptian attempts to destroy Israel were all in vain and unnecessary. Israel has and will continue to defend itself if attacked, but it does not want to fight at all. Egypt and Israel were allies in ancient times, and they can be again. President Sadat has offered to come to soeak in the Knesset so that no more Egyptian soldiers will be hurt, and Israel welcomes him with open arms. The Koran says that Israel belongs to the Jews. Both sides can find common ground in religion and other areas to live in peace.
In his opening remarks at a White House ceremony, Begin focuses on democracy, future for peace, and the strong relationship between the U.S. and Israel. Begin mentions the successful liberation of Zion, as well as the gruesome Holocaust. Because of Jewish history, Begin says that he badly wants peace because “peace is inseparable from national security.” He continues to say that national security directly relates to the life every person in Israel. Begin shifts to talk about the shrinking of democracy in the world and that it is crucial for free people to unite. He appreciates Jimmy Carter’s kind words about him and the Israeli Government, specifically referencing to Vietnamese refugees. Begin immediately compares the Vietnamese refugees to Jews who were unsuccessful in seeking refuge during the Holocaust. Lastly, in addition to inviting Carter to Jerusalem, he says that the U.S. and Israel ” shall never disagree; we may only agree to differ.”
