Premier Menachem Begin told a group of American Congressmen today he was concerned over Israeli casualties in Lebanon.
Begin did not speak of a war of attrition. But Sen. Arlen Specter (R. Pa.) said that Begin made clear that Israel would do “what is necessary.”
The Congressmen met Begin today as part of their study tour of the Mideast. They have already visited the Galilee and the Golan Heights.
“We have seen the tanks and the concentration of Syrian forces, ” said Specter, adding that Begin expressed his worry over the situation. Specter said that although there was American pressure on the Syrians to withdraw from Lebanon, “they are being very stubborn about it.”
He also said it was unrealistic to expect the U.S. to send more marines to the multinational force should Israel decide to engage in unilateral withdrawal to the Awali River.
Another member of the delegation, Rep. Bob Edgar (D. Pa.), said the relations between Israel and the U.S. were now at their best since the start of the war in Lebanon. Edgar suggested that Begin be invited to address a joint session of Congress when he visits the U.S.
The other Congressmen hosted by Begin at today’s meeting were Reps. Stephen Solarz (D. N.Y.), Robert Kastenmeier (D. Wis.) and Harry Reid (D. Nev.).
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