November 7, 1956 Israel Offers Peace

Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, before the Israel Parliament:

“There is not a people in the world so deeply concerned for the principles of peace and justice contained in the United Nations Charter than the Jewish people, not only because these principles are part of our ancient spiritual heritage and were passes on by us to the civilized world, but because the entire future of our people depends largely on the rule of peace and justice in the world.  …

“Israel has no quarrel with the Egyptian people.  Farouk and Nasser incited the Egyptians but there is no underlying enmity between Israel and Egypt, or vice -versa.  …

“Israel wants peace and neighborly relations under conditions of direct negotiations.  …

“We are ready for peace negotiations with the other Arab states on condition that they respect the armistice lines.  Israel will not attack the Arab States, but if attacked, will strike back.”

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