The State of Israel is embarking on a new path today, a path of hope and of unity, a path of security and of peace. And the first and foremost peace we must make is peace at home, amongst ourselves. This is our most important task because in recent years the polarization in Israeli society has deepened, the gaps have become larger, and the tension has increased. Dear friends, I see my first task as prime minister to mend the rifts, to reduce the tensions and to strengthen the unity and the sense of partnership, which is the basis of our existence.
Israeli society is blessed with many shades and persuasions.
Our unity is not based on blurring the uniqueness of each group. It is expressed by nurturing tolerance and mutual respect while maintaining the religious status quo. I am talking about a coming together of all the sectors in Israeli society, while maintaining the delicate balance between differing world views. This is our way and we will pursue it. These principles are enshrined in the Jewish heritage, which is the basis of our unity as a people, and from which we draw the principles of justice and equality for all of Israel's citizens, Jewish and non-Jewish alike.