By Stan Goodenough
May 07, 2008
Speaking shortly before the start of Memorial Day for Israel's fallen soldiers Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert insisted that his country, which Wednesday evening will begin celebrating 60 years since its miraculous rebirth, can never be destroyed.
"The people of Israel are strong, the State of Israel is strong, there is no enemy that can destroy us," he said in a speech, parts of which were quoted in The Jerusalem Post, and which appeared to be directed at Iran.
That country has repeatedly threatened to wipe Israel off the map and is pursuing the means to do so.
Olmert suggested that, before Iran actually acquires a nuclear bomb, Israel will deal with it.
"We will not place ourselves in a position where anyone will, in an effective manner, threaten us with destruction, because if there was one thing that has changed since the establishment of the State of Israel 60 years ago until today, it is not that here the Jews are safe in every situation, in every condition and that there will not be any dangers.
"But here, my friends," the prime minister declared, "the Jewish people can fight, and when it needs to, it fights, and when it fights, it wins."
Olmert's words were echoed by Israel's state president, Shimon Peres, who told the nation at a Memorial Day ceremony Tuesday evening that, while Israel wants to end wars and shake hands with its neighbors, "we know when to pull the trigger."
IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi, who followed Peres at the podium in front of the Western Wall at the nationally televised event, similarly exhorted his countrymen.
"We must continue teaching of the fallen soldiers' bravery, the heroes whose blood soaks the earth of Israel," he said evenly but with determination.
"The IDF will not fear any obstacle and will continue to be the shield that defends Israel."
The ceremony, at the foot of the Temple Mount where King Solomon 3000 years ago asked God to always hear the prayers prayed there, concluded with Bible readings, prayers, and the singing of Israel's National Anthem - Hatikvah (The Hope).