Subjects: Social Reform

Begin Issues Call to World Jewry

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In Begin’s Rosh Hashanah message, he focuses on four topics. He first talks about wanting aliyah to increase from both Jews living in democracies and living under communism. He specifically encourages youth to come and build up the land. Then he talks about the part of the country affected by poverty. Begin asks for Diaspora Jews to help fellow brethren who live in insufferable housing conditions. He reminds his readers that liberty and social justice are Jewish values. He shifts to talk about the importance of Hebrew being the second spoken language by Diaspora Jews. Having Hebrew as a second language will prevent the youth from being completed assimilated and leaving behind their Jewish heritage. Lastly, he talks about Jews unifying to support Israel’s security. He closes by praying that this year will bring peace to all people and Israel.

Sitting 3 of the Ninth Knesset Part I

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Begin presents to the Knesset with his government and its guidelines. In this speech, he first clarifies that he will not ask for other nations to recognize Israel’s right to exist, because existence is a right. He hopes other nations will recognize Israel’s sovereignty and “the mutual need for a life of peace and understanding.” He speaks about the Jewish people’s eternal relationship to the Land of Israel. Begin then reads the list of guidelines of the government.

Gahal Ready to Enter Unity Cabinet

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In the interview, Begin discusses Gahal’s decision to be part of the potential Government of National Unity. The main reason why Gahal agreed is because of the “time of emergency and for a war of salvation.” Under usual circumstances, Begin would have recommended for Gahal not to agree to be part of the Government of National Unity, nor a limited coalition with the Alignment. Begin talks about the positive results of the Histadrut elections. The elections showed an increase in Gahal’s workers and representation. Additionally, Gahal gained popularity amongst the youth. Then the interview shifts to issues that Israel will be dealing with in the future. This includes: surrendering Sinai and the West Bank, Israeli law extending to land gained from Six-Day War, peace agreements with Arab nations, and Russia’s involvement in fighting against Israel.

We Have Served Our People Well

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Begin sends a message to the delegates at Johannesburg’s National Conference of the Zionist Revisionist Organization. In this message Begin acknowledges the victories the disciples of Ze’ev Jabotinsky have fought for, despite the harsh opposition. He says that there is still a struggle for the Jewish Homeland, and that they must continue to devote their lives for serving the cause. He concludes that their generation has seen great suffering and that before they leave, they must make sure Israel is safe and secure.

Herut’s Role in New Knesset

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Begin speaks to the new Knesset focusing on his disappointments and lack of confidence in the new Government. Throughout the speech, he repeats that within the Government “‘yes’ is not ‘yes’; ‘no’ is not ‘no.'” He first discusses members’ actions in finding a loophole around the law the fifth Knesset adopted. He also discusses the actions of the new Minister of Labour, who demands Sabbath Law. This Minister demands the Ashdod Port to be closed on Shabbat, but because this could damage the national economy, he will determine if the port needs to operate on Shabbat. Ultimately, he argues that national action needs to happen and shares the actions Herut wants to take.