Netanyahu made the announcement after meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher for the first time since the right-wing Israeli leader was elected last month. The achievement of such progress towards peace is contingent on security. Indeed, real peace without security is not possible and real security without peace is impossible. Netanyahu, who was elected prime minister May 29 after promising a tough stance in any peace talks, said his new government would resume negotiations with Syria, Lebanon and other Arab nations. Because Israelis want peace with security, terrorism against Israel must end, Netanyahu said.
Terrorism is incompatible with the advancement towards peace.
Netanyahu and Christopher said relations between Israel and the United States were strong. Christopher's trip was partly intended to solidify relations in preparation for Netanyahu's visit to the United States July 9 to meet with President Clinton. No commitment on Hebron On one issue, Netanyahu and Christopher clearly disagreed. The secretary of state went to Jerusalem determined to persuade Netanyahu to withdraw Israeli troops from the West Bank town of Hebron. Netanyahu agreed to study the matter, including its religious and security aspects.