U.S. takes wait and see approach to Netanyahu

June 2, 1996
Web posted at: 8:25 p.m. EDT

From CNN White House Correspondent Jill Dougherty

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The Clinton administration had no official reaction Sunday to the first speech made by Benjamin Netanyahu as Israel's prime minister-elect.

Netanyahu's conciliatory tone seemed in line with the pledge he made to President Clinton last week to continue the U.S.- led peace process. "Let's go in a way of peace," Netanyahu said. "Let's go in a way of security for everyone -- for all the nations of the region."

Sunday morning, Netanyahu spoke by telephone with U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher. The secretary said he was reassured that Netanyahu is committed to pursuing peace, albeit "in his own way."

"He's putting together his cabinet," said Christopher on CBS. "And I think until that happens, I don't think we ought to make any judgments." (210K AIFF or WAV sound)

But what Netanyahu didn't say may be as important as what he did say. Mark Perry, of the Middle East Review, told CNN, "I noted in the speech the lack of two very specific words: The first is 'settlements,' the second is 'Syria.' The Palestinians are very concerned about Mr. Netanyahu's promise to expand the (West Bank) settlements. If Netanyahu does so, all his words of conciliation with the Palestinians will mean nothing." (175K AIFF or WAV sound)

Furthermore, Perry says Netanyahu's omission of any reference to Syria means Netanyahu does not intend to negotiate with its leader, Hafez Assad -- at least in the near future.

One Arab observer calls Netanyahu's speech an attempt to "repackage" his hard-line image, and to avoid pressure from the Clinton administration. "These two men have a lot in common," said Hisham Melham of As-Safir, comparing the U.S. president to the Israeli prime minister-elect. "They are relatively young, in their 40s; they came from behind against all odds; they share a lot. And I think Mr. Netanyahu will work to propagate this image."

If U.S. officials were looking for clues as to what specific policies Netanyahu will follow, they didn't get any from the speech. They say they'll get a better indication when they know who will be in the new prime minister's cabinet.

Related stories:

• Netanyahu gathers support to form ruling coalition - June 2, 1996
• Peres: Prophet without honor in his land - June 1, 1996
• Arabs urge new Israeli government to honor peace accords - June 1, 1996
• U.S. hopes Netanyahu won't undo the peace process - June 1, 1996
• Netanyahu unseats Peres in Israeli election - May 31, 1996

Related site:

• Pivotal Elections: Israel

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