Beit Hanassi: The peace president
By Greer Fay Cashman President Shimon Peres, Israel's eldest statesman known for his vision of "a new Middle East," proclaimed in his inaugural speech in the Knesset on Sunday that he was leaving divisive politics after six decades to devote himself "to unifying the nation." But, the 83-year-old declared defiantly, he would not shy away from using the presidency to promote peace in the region. "When the opportunity for peace is created, it must not be missed," Peres told a packed house after taking the oath of office. "The president must encourage peace processes. At home. With our neighbors. In the entire region." He then began a flurry of diplomatic meetings, most notably welcoming EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana on Wednesday. Peres told him that those residents of Gaza who voted Hamas into power must not be allowed to determine the future of the whole Palestinian people. He commended Solana for the work he has done over the years to try to bring peace to the region and argued that despite the current difficulties, there are "new opportunities." "Europe can play a major role," he said.
Solana concurred, saying he hoped that the peace that they had discussed "so many times together" would one day become a reality. Then, addressing Peres directly, he said: "Mr. President and my dear friend, it is a moving moment to see you here." Solana was plainly confident that as president Peres would be able to do much more to advance the peace process than anyone else. Over the past few decades, indeed, foreign dignitaries have made a point of meeting with Peres, regardless of his political rank at the time. He was considered Israel's man of stature and status, and his title was simply incidental. What mattered was his wisdom and his opinion, which were much more appreciated abroad than at home. And he (antichrist) shall confirm a covenant with many (Israel and her Arab neighbours) for one week (seven years).... Daniel 9:27 Source Jerusalem Post |
