Sharon: Rabin’s legacy belongs to all
PM says Israelis must remember Rabin’s unequivocal views on united Jerusalem; Rabin’s daughter Dalia: This is one of the happiest moments of my life, we are celebrating victory of hope
Even though a “small section of the public” attempted to take over Rabin’s legacy, it belongs to all Israelis, Sharon said.
Rabin Center inauguration (Photo: Israel Hadari)
“Rabin’s history did not begin in Oslo. We must talk about the cruel battles during the War of Independence and his role as the commander of the IDF,” the PM said.
“Above all, we must not forget Yitzhak Rabin’s unequivocal views on the question of Jerusalem’s unity,” Sharon stressed.
He then proceeded to read excerpts from a Rabin speech delivered at the Knesset in May 1995.
‘Victory of hope’
Those in attendance enjoyed an elegant cocktail party before dinner and were later invited into a giant, luxurious tent with about 70 tables arranged inside. Memorial candles were placed on each table, with every guest lighting one. Giant screens were placed behind the podium and displayed Rabin photographs throughout the night.
The evening was characterized by several touching moments, including the speeches and warm words of both Hillary and Bill Clinton.
In his speech, former President Clinton expressed his gratitude to Shimon Peres, who he said was “Rabin’s partner.” Clinton said his wife Hillary and him were present at several touching events in recent days and had a chance to talk about the future of the Middle East, Israel, and the peace process.
Sharon and Clinton (Photo: Israel Hadari)
Clinton said the new Rabin Center’s significance lies in allowing many the possibly of changing the future of the entire region and of the State of Israel.
Clinton added he saw people standing in complete silence to honor Rabin during the main rally in Tel Aviv on Saturday, adding “I’m trying to find some words that can express how I felt.”
Senator Hillary Clinton reiterated her husband’s message, saying the weekend reminded both of them how much they love Israel and believe in her future.
Meanwhile, Rabin’s daughter Dalia Rabin said the Center’s inauguration marked one of the happiest moments of her life.
“Today we are celebrating the victory of the good and of hope over all the rest,” she said.
