Premier Menachem Begin of Israel said last night that the peace process in the Mideast, as defined by the Camp David accords, “must be continued until it is realized.” He rejected criticism from Europe and other countries calling for the suspension of the autonomy talks for the West Bank and the Gaza District as “cynicism”.
The Premier made his remarks at an Israel Bonds dinner at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, attended by more than 1,500 guests from major communities across the United States. During the dinner, which honored Jack Weiler, the prominent American Jewish leader, a record total of $57,500,000 in Israel Bonds was sold. Sam Rothberg, chairman of the dinner, said that the event was “the biggest dinner in Jewish fund raising history in the United States.”
In his address, Begin reiterated Israel’s stand that Jerusalem is its “united forever and indivisible” capital. He pointed out that for 19 years, when Jerusalem was under Jordanian rule, Jewish shrines and cemeteries were ruined and desecrated. But today, under Israeli administration, Jerusalem is open to men and women of all faiths, Begin said, declaring: “This freedom is guaranteed now forever.”
SAYS ISRAEL CAN DEFEND ITSELF
Begin said that “Israel, thank God, is strong” and is capable of defending itself against any attack. But he said that Israel spends a staggering amount of money on defense –“more than 30 percent of our GNP” and this puts “a great burden” an Israel’s economy. He noted that Israel is not only the most faithful ally of the free world and the United States “but also the most stable ally of the free world and the United States. ” Therefore, Begin said, “the free world and the U.S. should be a faithful ally to Israel.” Begin concluded his address by calling for Jewish unity and for renewed efforts on behalf of Israel.
The Premier presented the 1980 Golda Meir Leadership Award to Weiler “in appreciation of 40 years of leadership, service and dedication in the spirit and measure of the future of the State of Israel.”
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
