“Let us work together until the day comes when they beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning books.” — Anwar el-Sadat, March 26, 1979
“No more war, no more bloodshed, no more bereavement, peace unto you, Shalom, Saalam, forever.” — Menachem Begin, March 26, 1979
“We must rededicate ourselves to the goal of a broader peace with justice for all who have lived in a state of conflict in the Middle East. We have no illusions – we have hopes, dreams, and prayers, yes – but no illusions.” — Jimmy Carter, March 26, 1979
Here’s an important anniversary I’m betting will pass by most of the world unnoticed: twenty eight years ago today, Egypt and Israel signed the Camp David Accords at the White House, agreeing to make peace and to establish “normal and friendly relations.”
We would do well to celebrate the work of Sadat and Begin, the most unlikely of peacemakers, as well as the dogged diplomatic efforts of one courageous American President. It’s also worth noting that what seemed like such a fragile peace in 1979 has remained steadfast and intact to this very day. Remember the days in which diplomacy was actually valued, not considered a sign of naivete, weakness or appeasement?
I know what some will undoubtedly say here: it was a different “context” back then, these are different times, yada, yada. Don’t believe it for a second. The world is no more dangerous now than it’s ever been. If there is any difference between then and now, I’ll suggest it’s to be found in today’s notable absence of vision, diplomatic initiative and moral leadership.
So Happy Camp David Day. And pray for the peacemakers…
