The debate over the limits of the government's opponents' protest, and the fear that the Palestinians will not renounce terrorism: On the 30th anniversary of the dramatic government meeting, which approved the Oslo Accords, the State Archives today (Tuesday) revealed the minutes of the charged meeting.
Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin told the ministers that he was aware that "this is not a simple agreement. And that there is a feeling of partiality, and that is also true - that the paper is essentially built on what we give.".
He added: "There is little commitment from the Palestinians, it is not certain that they will renounce terrorism.".
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Foreign Minister Shimon Peres said that the Palestinians would issue a statement in which they pledged to stop violent actions - and Rabin expressed doubt: "We need to see what this statement is. Who is making the statement? Is it in writing? It is not closed.".
Shimon Peres: "I must say that there is a possibility that the whole PLO business will fall apart and there will be a kind of Hamas Iran here.".
He then clarified: "We did not give up any territory, we did not take down any settlement, we maintained the unity of Jerusalem, we ensured Israel's security... This is an important and good opportunity and it should be approved.".
The then Chief of Staff, Ehud Barak, warned: "Their operations against the residents will be more effective. The current form of operation - a central anchor in our ability to combat terrorism (referring to activity in cities) - cannot exist.".
Minister Peres advocated arming the Palestinians: "Let's give the majority (who don't want terrorism) the police to protect themselves. Otherwise, there's no chance of elections. Hamas will crush you at the polls. We have an idiotic role, to say that there is a majority, which we don't recognize, and to paralyze the minority with force.".
Minister Deri, who abstained from the vote, addressed the Meretz ministers: "It is clear that for you this is an achievement. You have finally justified your stay in the government. But you know that peace is not made only between two sides, the people must also be with you.".
Minister Shulamit Aloni responded: "The security issue was given maximum answers in the agreement, as it is presented here, and I think it is covered from every side and from every maximum angle, and there should be no need to arouse the feeling that we are risking more here than the alternative, if this agreement did not exist.".
Government ministers also discussed the violent demonstrations on the right.
Health Minister Haim Ramon asked Rabin to guarantee the protesters' right to demonstrate "by all legitimate means." Rabin replied: "There is no need to exaggerate. The problem is what legitimate means are - not incessant harassment.".
Ramon: "This diagnosis on our part is also very, very important for reducing the number of extremist elements who might resort to illegal means.".
Ultimately, 16 ministers supported the agreement and two abstained.
