President Peres on Israel’s 65th Anniversary: “Peace is Possible”

Jacob Miller — April 16, 2013 – 3:22 pm | Comments (0) Add a comment

To mark Israel’s 65^th Independence Day, Israeli President Shimon Peres sat down for interviews with Israel Hayom, The Times of Israel, and The Jerusalem Post. Below are some excerpts from the series of interviews:

From Israel Hayom:

On Iran:

“I have no doubt that if diplomatic talks fail with Iran and Tehran doesn’t stop accelerating its nuclear development - U.S. President Barack Obama will conduct a military attack against Iran,”

“Preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon isn’t only an Israeli interest, but a global and an American interest. As long as the U.S. is in the lead - why shouldn’t we use its assistance?”

On his health:

“My bodyguards tell me they’re jealous of me in every regard. I have no health problems. I think my optimistic spirit influences my health. People who are sick are generally unhappy. People who are healthy are generally happy. I’m generally happy.”

Vision for the future and for the Israeli People:

“A tomorrow without violence, without murder, without wars, without discrimination, without hatred and with justice for all people. Every person must have the equal right to be different.”

“Peace, security and education. Today, peace is closer than ever before.”

Photo Credit: Yossi Zamir/Flash90

From The Times of Israel:

On Iran:

I think Obama conducts the right policy [on Iran]. Why do I say that? What makes America exceptional is that it is the only country in history, the only force in history, that became great by giving, not by taking. In the American historic balance, they gave more than they took. It’s wise, because if you take, you create enemies. 

On Peace:

 I don’t say it’s assured that it will be quick, but I say it’s possible it will be quick. There are many reasons to justify a new speed.

From The Jerusalem Post on the topic of peace:

My main message to [the soldiers] is that the story of Israel is not a story of the rich land that has enriched the people, but a story of rich people that enriched the land. Our natural source is the human vein. Everybody can be as great as the cause he serves.”

He remains confident that peace is not impossible, if people can rid themselves of preconceived notions.

“Impossibility is a product of our prejudice,” he says.

 

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