Agreement with the Palestinians, based on two states for two peoples, is the right thing for the future of our children.

Following are excerpts from Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid’s speech to the UN General Assembly on September 22, 2022:

 “History is determined by people. We need to understand history, respect it and learn from it. But also to be willing and able to change it. To choose the future over the past. Peace over war. Partnership over seclusion and isolation.

“In the government which I lead, there are Arab Ministers. There is an Arab party as a member of our coalition. We have Arab judges in our Supreme Court. Arab doctors saving lives in our hospitals. Israeli Arabs are not our enemies, they are our partners in life.

“An agreement with the Palestinians, based on two states for two peoples, is the right thing for Israel’s security, for Israel’s economy and for the future of our children.

“Peace is not a compromise. It is the most courageous decision we can make. Peace is not weakness.  It embodies within it the entire might of human spirit. War is surrender to all that is bad within us. Peace is the victory of all that is good.

“Despite all the obstacles, still today a large majority of Israelis support the vision of this two-state solution. I am one of them.

“Israel seeks peace with our neighbors. All our neighbors. We are not going anywhere. The Middle East is our home. We are here to stay. Forever. And we call upon every Muslim country — from Saudi Arabia to Indonesia — to recognize that, and to come talk to us. Our hand is outstretched for peace.

“Conflicts do not disappear on their own. Hostility doesn’t disappear on its own. People create conflicts, people can also replace them with friendship, kindness and common good.”

About Heart of a Nation

Heart of a Nation is bringing together Americans, Israelis, and Palestinians who are committed to making their societies better.