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Toward the Aqaba Summit -
Israel's Commitment to Peace and Security
Posted: June 3, 2003
The Government of Israel expresses its hope that the political process that will commence, in accordance with the June 24, 2002 speech of President Bush, will bring security, peace and reconciliation between Israel and the Palestinians.
On May 25, 2003, the Government of Israel decided to endorse the Road Map, taking into note that the United States is committed to fully and seriously address Israel's comments to the Road Map during the implementation phase.
Click here for the complete statement
Talking Points
- Israel's hand has been and will remain outstretched towards peace with the Palestinians. The Government's decision to accept the steps outlined in the Road Map further proves this commitment.
- Israel does not accept the Palestinian demand for a "right of return" for Palestinian refugees to Israel. As stated by the Government: "both during and subsequent to the political process, the resolution of the issue of the refugees will not include their entry into or settlement within the State of Israel."
- Now it is time for the new Palestinian Prime Minister Abu Mazen to seize the moment and show that he is a true partner for peace by putting an end to violence, stopping Palestinian incitement, arresting terrorists, dismantling terrorist organizations, and destroying illegal weapons. Only genuine and decisive actions against terror can reinvigorate the negotiating process and enable us to move forward.
- Israel can no longer rely on verbal commitments from the Palestinians. What is required now are actions, not declarations. The Palestinians must take concrete measures to eradicate terrorism. A temporary "cease-fire" will not be enough - a permanent cessation of terrorism is required.
Israel's Steps to Ease Palestinian Living ConditionsAiming to create a constructive atmosphere leading to peace negotiations, and trying to assist the new Palestinian Prime Minister in establishing his authority, the Government of Israel announced a policy of reaching out to the Palestinians which includes a series of steps. The purpose of this policy is to ease the living conditions of the Palestinians, foster trade and encourage the Palestinian economy. Some of the steps include:
- Removing the closures of Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip.
- Granting permanent transit permits to senior Palestinian officials.
- Releasing administrative prisoners.
- Allowing 25,000 workers to work in Israel.
- Easing operation of humanitarian organizations operating in the territories.
- Increasing transfer of goods between Israel and the territories.
In addition, Prime Minister Sharon said that with additional improvement of the security situation, Israel's willingness and capability to reciprocate in a positive manner would increase, and so would the ability of the Palestinian population to feel the change.
In embarking on a new initiative to advance peace in the Middle East, Israel will do all in its power to end the violence and reach peace.
Israel will not take unnecessary risks which will endanger the security of its citizens. Israel views the issue of security as the central component of the series of steps towards peace that are described in the Road Map.
Background Information
