Livni warns binational state a 'threat'

Opposition head says using term 'Holocaust' when referring to Iranian threat makes Israel weaker.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Livni flag 248.88 ap (photo credit: AP [file])
Livni flag 248.88 ap
(photo credit: AP [file])
The possibility of the establishment of one nation for Israelis and Palestinians, rather than the acceptance of a two-state solution, is a strategic threat to the existence of the Jewish state, opposition chair Tzipi Livni said on Thursday. "The idea that there will be one state for two peoples instead of a Jewish and democratic state of Israel is a strategic threat; no less [important] than any other threat," Livni said during a speech at the Fisher Institute. "Time is not on the side of those who want to keep Israel a Jewish state, time is not on the side of the moderates in the region, and therefore we must not drag our feet and delay the inevitable with unfruitful negotiations." Livni also spoke indirectly about Iran, criticizing the use of the term "Holocaust" when discussing the threat the Islamic regime poses to Israel. "The use of terms such as 'Holocaust' when speaking of threats is problematic," she told the assembly. "It doesn't convey the right message. Israel of 2009 is a stronger, more powerful state, and it can make decisions. "Therefore," Livni continued, "the connection to the Holocaust, which took place before the Jewish nation had the capacity to defend itself, is wrong, both with regards to the Holocaust itself, and also with regards to the correct ethos of our nation, from the perspective of its strength." Speaking about a 'Holocaust' does not "diminish the threat," the opposition leader said, "and Israel must not be portrayed as weak at time when decisions need to be made."