Realizing the blessings of peace in the Middle East. (Pres. Bill Clinton, Oct. 27, 1994)(Jordan-Israel Breakthroughs)(Transcript)

Remarks by President Clinton to the Israeli Knesset, Jerusalem, October 27, 1994.

Mr. President, Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Netanyahu, ladies and gentlemen of the Knesset: Let me begin by thanking the Prime Minister and the people of Israel for welcoming me to your wonderful country and thanking all of you for giving me the opportunity to address this great democratic body where, clearly, people of all different views are welcome to express their convictions. I feel right at home.

Yesterday, Israel took a great stride toward fulfilling the ancient dream of the Jewish people--the patriarch's dream of a strong and plentiful people living freely in their own land, enjoying the fruits of peace with their neighbors--nearly 17 years after President Sadat came to this chamber to seek peace and Prime Minister Begin reached out in reconciliation. And just over a year after Israel and the PLO declared a pathway to peace on the South Lawn of the White House, Israel and Jordan have now written a new chapter.

Tonight, we praise the courage of the leaders who have given life to this treaty--Prime Minister Rabin and Foreign Minister Peres. They have shown the vision and the tenacity of other leaders of Israel's past whose names will be remembered always for their devotion to your cause and your people--Ben Gurion, Maier, and Begin.

In your life Prime Minister, we see the life of your country. As a youth, you wished to fulfill the commandment to farm the land of Israel, but, instead, you had to answer the call to defend the people of Israel. You have devoted your life to cultivating strength so that others could till the soil in safety. You have fought many battles and won many victories in war. Now, in …