Dayan: Israel Might Accept Compromise on Rectification of Truce Violations

Defense Minister Moshe Dayan hinted last night that Israel might be prepared to accept some compromise on the rectification of Egyptian cease-fire violations out of consideration for United States interests, Addressing the opening of the kibbutz movement youth conference at Beth Berl, he likened Israel’s relations with the U.S., and Egyptian relations with the Soviet Union, to the relationship that exists between clients and lawyers. In the case of Israel and the U.S. it is more than that, “it is also one of partners,” he said. He observed that the Middle East conflict was part of the wider context of superpowers in global confrontation. “We all have to take into account our lawyers’ interests. After all, the question of removing missiles from the standstill zone has now become a point at issue between two lawyers. Indeed, it is a matter now of American prestige,” Gen. Dayan said. ‘Israel needs a friendly country and we must not make things too difficult for our lawyers lest we be left without one” he said. Gen. Dayan rejected the idea that the late President Nasser was the only Arab political leader who could have brought peace to the region. “All I know is that he brought wars on us.” Gen. Dayan said. He said Israel’s policy must not forget that it is Egypt’s long term intention to eradicate Israel. Therefore, he said, Israel must build up its strength and that means ensuring American arms supplies. “Maintaining our ties with the U.S. are of the utmost importance,” he said.