Barak: Peace with Lebanon, Syria possible

Defense minister tours IDF post on Israel-Lebanon border, says 'alongside alertness, we seek peace'

Hagai Einav |Published: 09.16.10 , 14:11

Defense Minister Ehud Barak on Thursday visited the Israel Defense Forces post on the border with Lebanon, expressing his hope that the explosive region would turn into a border of peace.

"In the past there were those who dreamed of peace with Egypt and getting to see the pyramids up close. We later achieved peace with Jordan as well. Alongside the IDF's alertness, we plan to make peace," Barak stressed.

"We are in the midst of talks with the Palestinians and hope to overcome the obstacles. I believe peace with Lebanon and Syria is possible as well, and we must not lose hope for one minute."

Barak and Eisenkot tour northern border (Photo: Avishag Shear-Yeshuv)

Barak was escorted by Northern Command Chief Major-General Gadi Eisenkot and Galilee Division Commander Brigadier-General Yoel Strick.

The minister was briefed on the situation in the region and looked over the Lebanese villages. He then met with a group of soldiers from the Golani Brigades, the Armored Corps and the Field Intelligence Corps, who told him about their service and missions along the northern border.

"At the moment the landscape here is pastoral and quiet, but that could change very fast unfortunately, things have happened," the minister said, warning against complacency.

"You are required within second to stand up and demonstrate the abilities you have purchased during your service. Hezbollah is as sophisticated as we are. They consider every move and try to hurt and surprise us."

Barak mentioned the kidnapping incidents which took place on the border, stressing that they must not be repeated. "You have the best commanders, you are prepared and we trust you," he said.

'Hezbollah as sophisticated as us' (Photo: Avishag Shear-Yeshuv)

"We are on the eve of Yom Kippur, a significant day for all the people of Israel, but also for the IDF. You cannot remember, but even the major-general sitting here was a school student at the time. Thirty-seven years ago we were suddenly surprised by a coordinated attack initiated by Syria on the Golan and Egypt from Sinai."

Barak expressed his gratitude to the soldiers for their contribution to the State. "I came here today to thank you, the soldiers, in the name of Israel's citizens, for everything you do all days of the year. You have parents and uncles who fought, and today you are here. I am certain that we won't be surprised once again. We trust you."