The launching of the Shamir Plan raised a number of issues that would have to be addressed. Among them the nature. of the elections (municipal or political), international supervision size of self-governing authority, linkage between the interim and the final settlement. These issues are discussed in the following interview:
Mr. Peres: In my opinion this is the important historical opportunity at this stage: to break the deadlock and violence, and opt for a chance for free negotiations between equal parties. I sincerely hope that the Palestinian residents will not miss out on such a chance.
Q: Are you in favor of political or municipal elections in the territories?
A: Unequivocally, [I support] political [elections]. This is a political matter, a political representation and the future of the territories is at hand. This time it is not the administration of municipal or communal life which is at stake.
Q: What is your opinion about holding elections under international auspices, or the presence of international supervisors or observers?
A: I don't think there is any call for supervision. Is rael is quite serious about conducting free, fair and open elections, and therefore, there is room for observers; we have nothing to hide. There is no need to supervise us, and we have no need to hide anything.
Q: Is there a possibility that East Jerusalem residents will participate in these elections?
A: This is not a matter of administration but of a large-scale plebiscite, and I would certainly enable the residents of East Jerusalem to voice their opinion. Not necessarily inside Jerusalem proper. This could be done outside the city.
Q: What do you think should be the size of the delegation that will be elected in these elections?
A: I know that the smaller the government, the more efficient are its actions. I believe this holds true for the delegation as well. The smaller the delegation will be, the more efficiently it will be able to operate.
Q: What should be the delegation's minimal size?
A: I would say that there should be ten to twelve members, 14 members.
Q: Should there be any linkage between the interim and permanent settlements which will be attained in the territories?
A: Of course there should be a connection in terms of time schedule. For example, how long it will take before the permanent arrangement is implemented; we cannot say that we will live forever according to the interim arrangement. I estimate that establishing the negotiations upon the basis of Resolutions 242 and 338, already hints at the permanent settlement.
Q: What impact will elections in the territories have upon the uprising there?
A: [ ... ] are set up, the territories will calm down.
Q: Do you believe that the uprising will come to a complete halt as soon as the delegation is elected?
A: I can discuss this only on the basis of logic, I cannot venture guesses. Logic dictates that if there is willingness to participate in elections, this in any event signifies that there is willingness to desist from the violent confrontation.
Q: Will the PLO ultimately give the green light for holding these elections?
A: I do not know. The PLO has three options, and I do not know which one it will choose. It can decide to allow [elections], it can decide not to, and it can choose not to decide. My assessment is that if it chooses not to decide, the residents will participate in the elections.
Q: In the near future do you intend to meet with Palestinian figures from the territories in order to try to push the elections idea?
A: According to the need, I do, and if I am requested to do so I will consent.