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Menachem Begin Broadcasts to South Africa

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Begin broadcasts on the South African Broadcasting Corporation. He first speaks about the link between the Union of South Africa and Israel. He explains that their geographic link is narrowed because of “modern means of communication.” There is also a spiritual link between the two nations; both are dreamers and pioneers. Begin speaks about the goodwill he feels based on seeing the country and meeting the Prime Minister, press, and citizens. He shifts to talk about Israel’s potential to develop in both agricultural and industrial ways. He speaks of other countries considered to be in the Middle East and that in those countries, majority of people are in “misery and disease and malnutrition.” Begin expresses that the condition of these other countries make them a target for communism. Then he strongly states that despite threats from Israel’s enemies, Israel is going to stay on the map. He concludes that the Union of South Africa and Israel will have a solid friendship.

Menachem Begin Lectures to Pretoria University on ‘Wars of Liberation’

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Begin lectures to students at Pretoria University about the War of Independence. He compares the recent fight for freedom with the Maccabees. Both fought to return the Jewish nation to its homeland. He also speaks about just like in other liberation wars, many of the fighters die, and others take their place so “the chain is never broken, the fight for freedom goes on.” Additionally, Begin explains that freedom fighters do not believe in physical force, but rather moral force. Begin then shares that a key difference between Israel’s liberation war and other liberation wars is that in other liberation wars, the nations gained an ally. This was not that case for Israel; Israel only gained sympathy. To conclude his lecture, he spoke about the importance of youth returning to religion had having real sincere faith.

My Message Is One of Faith’ Menachem Begin Tells S.A.

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Begin speaks to a South African crowd and first pays tribute to the men who died and are ready to die for the Jewish people. He speaks of Ze’ev Jabotinsky having a minority opinion when he argued for State evacuation. Begin explains that he is not a politician because politicians cannot teach patriotism. Additionally, quoting Churchill, Begin says he would rather be irresponsible and right, than responsible and wrong. Begin speaks what Herut would like to see happen in Israel and specifically references the importance of having a constitution. He speaks of Germany and the dangers if Germany gets back their weaponry. He also discusses of the lack of peace happening between Arab countries and Israel, and that Israel is prepared for war. Begin expresses his frustration about the Government not doing enough to absorb more Jews from North Africa. He closes by reminding the crowd that despite the pessimism regarding the dream of redeeming the Homeland, the dream has come true.

The Broadcast That Stirred All Israel

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Prior to the arrival of Begin in South Africa, the Jewish Herald published Begin’s broadcast to Israel on the first night of Israel’s existence. In this broadcast, Begin first reflects on successful, yet difficult, Hebrew revolt. Begin mentions the importance for the Jewish army to have weapons and spiritual armor. He discusses the importance of diplomacy with all nations that will recognize Israel’s existence and specifically speaks about the U.S., Soviet Union, and France. He shifts to speak the necessity of encouraging aliyah. Additionally, justice should be a fundamental principle for the State. Begin announces that there is no longer a need for the Underground within the borders of the independent state. He then expresses that the nation is in the middle of a battle and that they will succeed. He concludes by praying for the Hebrew soldiers.

Menachem Begin Replies to an Open Letter

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In the Open Letter, youth from the Tzrifin Underground accuse Begin of not supporting the youth in fighting against the Government’s unjust laws. They argue that it is enough for him to speak in the Knesset, but he should also be encouraging and supporting for the youth to act. Begin responds by first addressing Mapai newspapers excitement towards the open letter. These newspapers claimed that the youth from the terrorist group saw Begin as their leader. Begin responds that it is ridiculous to make such accusations without any evidence. He continues to say though that he has and will continue to encourage incitement against tyrannical laws that exist in Israel. Then Begin explains why he believes the ballot box is the only successful way to gain control of the Government. He concludes by telling the youth that “a free man, who chooses his own path, should never feel compelled to blame anyone who accompanies him, or who does not accompany him, for that choice.”