Monday June 15, 2009
TEXT - Highlights from Netanyahu speech
(Reuters) - Following are highlights from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's keynote speech on Sunday about peace prospects with the Palestinians.
Translation from the Hebrew is by Reuters:
 |
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (R) speaks with Knesset member Ofir Akonis after a non-confidence vote at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, in Jerusalem June 8, 2009. (REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun/Files) |
PALESTINIAN STATEHOOD, WITH CONDITIONS
"The territory in Palestinian hands must be demilitarised -- in other words, without an army, without control of airspace, and with effective security safeguards...
A fundamental condition for ending the conflict is the Palestinians recognising -- verbally, honestly, bindingly ... -- that Israel is the nation state of the Jewish people.
If we receive this undertaking, for demilitarisation and the security arrangements required by Israel, and if the Palestinians recognise Israel as the nation state of the Jewish people, we will be prepared for a true peace agreement, to reach a solution of a demilitarised Palestinian state alongside the Jewish state.
WEST BANK SETTLEMENTS
We have no intention of building new settlements or of expropriating land for new settlements. But there is a need to allow settlers to lead normal lives, to allow mothers and fathers to raise their children like all families around the world.
PALESTINIAN REFUGEES
The Palestinian refugee problem must be resolved outside the borders of the state of Israel. On this, there is a broad international consensus.
I believe that with goodwill, and international investment, this humanitarian problem can be solved once and for all.
TERRITORIAL HANDOVERS BY ISRAEL
Many a worthy person has told us that withdrawal is the key to peace between us and the Palestinians ... But the fact is that every withdrawal has been accompanied by rockets and suicide attacks.
That claim purporting that withdrawal will bring peace with the Palestinians, or at least bring it closer, has so far not been borne out in practice.
JERUSALEM
Israel needs defensible borders and Israel's capital, Jerusalem, will remain united.
ABBAS VS. HAMAS
They must decide between the way of peace and the way of Hamas. The Palestinian Authority must impose law and order ... and overcome Hamas. Israel will not negotiate with terrorists trying to destroy it.
ARAB REGIONAL ENGAGEMENT
I appeal, from here this evening, to the leaders of the Arab states and say: Let's meet. Let's talk peace. Let's make peace. I am willing to meet with you any time, any place -- in Damascus, in Riyadh, in Beirut."
Copyright © 2008 Reuters
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