Foreign Minister Yigal Allon told the Knesset today that events in Lebanon are being watched by Israel “with the fullest preparedness and readiness.” He said, however, that the “decisive factor” was the effect of developments in Lebanon on Israel’s security and Israel’s actions and policies would be guided mainly by that factor.
Allon spoke at a special session of the Knesset called by Likud to debate the Issue of U.S. economic aid for the transitional quarter. (See separate story.) But the Foreign Minister opened his remarks with a review of the situation on the northern border in light of reports, confirmed by Israeli military sources over the weekend, that some 600-800 Syrian troops have entered Lebanon.
Allon assured the Knesset that Israeli authorities have “taken all the necessary steps” warranted by the changing situation in Lebanon. He said, however, that because the situation was so delicate and volatile he could not go into any details. He said Israel deplored the continuing bloodshed which has taken many innocent lives in Lebanon.
Allon referred to the “brave struggle of the Lebanese Christian community” and the “selfish silence” of the Christian world at large. The Lebanese debacle is further proof of the “worthlessness” of international peace-keeping organizations. Allon said, an obvious thrust at the UN. He said Israel retained hope that a political solution would be reached in Lebanon that would preserve that country’s integrity and independence.
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