Netanyahu: Barak's concessions will destroy the country Arutz 2 (24.7.2000) JERUSALEM (July 24) - In his first address to the nation since his electoral defeat more than a year ago, former prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu issued a strongly worded plea to the delegation at Camp David not to make concessions on refugees, the Jordan Valley, and especially Jerusalem. "Just as the longing for Jerusalem was the dream that unified and built us into a nation, the forsaking of Jerusalem is liable to become the catalyst for the disintegration of our nation and our state," Netanyahu said in a speech from his office in Jerusalem that was broadcast live on television. Netanyahu said he decided to speak directly to the people at a time when negotiations at Camp David have reached a critical juncture, because he has "a deep feeling that the future of the country is in danger." His speech was widely viewed as a sign he is returning to politics. He accused Prime Minister Ehud Barak of crossing all the red lines he had drawn prior to the summit and giving in to unreasonable demands made by Palestinian Authority Chairman Yasser Arafat. "A nation does not hand over its capital and does not divide it," Netanyahu said, warning that "a man who can divide Jerusalem will end up also dividing other cities." Controlling the Jordan Valley, Netanyahu said, is central to the country's defense. When asked what he would do if he were in Barak's shoes, Netanyahu said, "It's better to leave Camp David now without an agreement than to come back with a bad agreement that endangers the future of the state." |
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