Jerusalem, 18 June 2000
PM Barak: Palestinian Leadership Must Genuinely Desire Agreement
(Communicated by the Prime Minister's Media Adviser)
The Political-Security Cabinet met today (Sunday), 18.6.2000, for
approximately five hours, to discuss the negotiations with the
Palestinians. Security officials briefed the ministers on the
current situation.
Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ehud Barak said that we are
nearing the end of the diplomatic corridor which began with the
Oslo Accords and added that, therefore, the hour of decision is
close at hand.
Prime Minister Barak emphasized that complex and sensitive issues
remain on the agenda and added that the way they are dealt with
will determine the reality of our lives and those of coming
generations. He said that while Israel is interested in a
settlement and is even willing to make difficult decisions (to
the extent that they maintain Israel's vital interests), it is
not possible to enforce a settlement on the other side, and added
that without genuine desire on the part of the Palestinian
leadership there will be no agreement.
Regarding various reports on the issue, Prime Minister Ehud Barak's
Bureau wishes to clarify the government is set on achieving a peace
agreement with the Palestinians and believes that all chances of
reaching an agreement that will assure Israel's vital interests must
be exhausted.
The IDF is in constant contact with Palestinian security officials
with the goal of preventing misunderstandings and thereby contributing
to achieving security and quiet. However, the IDF does have to be
prepared and ready for any possibility and to provide full security to
all residents of Israel wherever they live.