Israel is about to celebrate its 62nd birthday.
Many Israelis will be asking themselves, how far have we come since 1948?
The interview below is a good indication.
It was recorded when the United Arab Republic (UAR) was about to be formed. Egypt was at the height of its power, and Israel was not occupying an inch of the West Bank, or the Golan. As far as many countries in the Middle East were concerned, it had to apologize for merely existing. Economically, Israel was a basket case.
The year was 1958. The interviewer was Mike Wallace, the interviewee was Foreign Minister Abba Eban.
We have come a long way since then. Mistakes have been made. However the progress has been astonishing.
The dream lives on, and its up to us Israelis, more than any other nation to protect it and to nurture it.
In 1948 we had to fight for our very survival. In 2010 we have to make peace for our longevity. A Palestinian state, based on the territories captured after 1967 is not a detriment to our survival. Its something that will assure Israel's future as a Jewish, democratic state. For Israel's sake, we must strive for a Palestinian state.
How the times and options for our survival have changed, to our advantage.
Dear Israel, happy birthday.
To watch the interview, click here