AJC on the Radio: Remembering the Six-Day War

American Jewish Committee
Tuesday, 4 June 2002

In his biweekly radio commentary, American Jewish Committee Executive Director David A. Harris discusses the lessons of the Six Day War, which began on June 5, 1967.

The radio commentary is airing in New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

The full text of the commentary follows:

Thirty-five years ago this week, Israel fought a war for survival against Arab neighbors seeking its destruction.

It's a good moment to recall some basic facts.

Prior to the Six-Day war, the West Bank was in the hands of Jordan and Gaza was ruled by Egypt, there never having been a Palestinian state.

After the war, Israel proposed trading captured lands for peace. The Arab League rejected any talks.

Later, when partners emerged in Egypt and Jordan, Israel signed peace treaties with them.

But with the Palestinians, tragically, it's another story, as we've seen in the most recent revelations of Chairman Arafat's involvement in terrorism.

When a Palestinian leadership genuinely committed to peace emerges, it will find Israel an eager partner. Until then, Israel must defend itself against the kind of terror we Americans now understand all too well.

To learn more, visit us at ajc.org.

This is David Harris of the American Jewish Committee.

For more information, or to contact American Jewish Committee, see their website at: www.ajc.org