“The talks that were intended to initiate a movement toward a peaceful settlement between Israel and Egypt have been suspended. From the early stages of the negotiations, Israel stated its readiness to evacuate the Gidi and Mitle Passes and the Abu Rodeis oil fields in return for a renunciation of the state of war by Egypt. Egypt refused to renounce the state of war and insisted that it continue.
“Nevertheless, Israel offered, in return for a less binding political undertaking, to withdraw its forces from the present disengagement lines, including the western part of the strategic passes, the Mitle and the Gidi, and to transfer them to United Nations control. Israel also offered to transfer the oil fields to Egyptian administration. This offer was rejected as well by Egypt. This rejection by Egypt led to the suspension of the talks.
“Israel remains ready as always to persevere in its efforts toward a settlement with Egypt and will continue to maintain the closest contacts with the U.S. government toward this end. Israel extends its deep gratitude to the U.S. government and particularly to Secretary of State Kissinger for his untiring efforts in the cause of peace.”
JTA has documented Jewish history in real-time for over a century. Keep our journalism strong by joining us in supporting independent, award-winning reporting.
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.
