On a number of occasions in the course of 1998, Foreign Minister Sharon expressed the view that a 13% FRD would constitute a grave danger for Israel. In the following statement given at the airport, he explained that the figure was in any case predetermined and not subject to negotiation. He felt that although the price for Israel was very heavy, it did achieve the best possible resuts under the circumstances. The test would now be in the implementation of the details. Text:
A peace process is nearly as difficult as war. In a peace process, one is compelled to make concessions. Here, we are talking about relinquishing parts of our homeland, the cradle of the Jewish people. We have decided, however, despite the pain, to make every effort to achieve peace, while ensuring maximum security for the State of Israel and its citizens in every place - and let me emphasize: in every place. Bearing in mind the agreement that the government inherited, the agreement that has now been achieved is a good one. There are important gains in this agreement for Israel, and I want you to know that it was accomplished after very difficult negotiations - talks that lasted all day and all night - that were carried out with American mediation and with the special efforts of President Clinton. The Prime Minister has already described what has been achieved, and therefore I will not repeat those points.
I would like to highlight the issue of the 13 percent withdrawal. I have stated my position on this subject to you on more than one occasion. The price of 13 percent was predetermined and was not subject to negotiation. The price exacted is indeed a heavy one, and there is a danger in a withdrawal of this scope. I said it then and I say it again today: I had a problem on this issue. I have emphasized the difficult negotiations, but we succeeded in reducing the dangers as much as possible and achieving the maximum possible. In return for the price that we ultimately paid, we have achieved the best possible agreement in the circumstances, and I hope that the agreement will pave the way to a life of peace. Of course, everything depends on whether the details of the agreement are carried out. Israel desires peace, and we all want the agreement to succeed; its success being judged by the implementation of every detail in the agreement. Therefore, we have insisted that we withdraw in stages, with each withdrawal contingent upon the Palestinians fulfilling their obligations, and this was the main cause of contention.
In addition, I would like to comment on the issue of Jonathan Pollard which, to my regret, has sparked reactions that have surprised me. Efforts have been made in the past to release Jonathan Pollard and other prisoners, and these efforts will continue in the future, reflecting the ancient Jewish tradition of releasing captives.
I want to thank all the people who were with us at Wye Plantation. I would like to tell you that, contrary to various reports of an easy life out there, it was in fact one of the most arduous experiences I have ever been through, and I must also emphasize the general effort invested by everyone. I must also stress that the ministerial team led by the Prime Minister worked in an atmosphere of maximum cooperation and coordination - possibly the best atmosphere that I have ever known in the course of my long service in the government.