BICOM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Israel’s democracy as “free and thriving” in a special open session to honour the 63rd birthday of Israel’s Knesset, yesterday. Netanyahu added that, “I know there are those who claim that Israeli democracy is in danger, I disagree. The fact that you can say anything here, debate anything, is an example of Israel’s strength. When we look around us we definitely have something to be proud of.”

Israel’s President Shimon Peres also addressed the open house, telling an audience of 4,000 that, “Every time I come up to this podium I become emotional anew… I have had the privilege of being a member of this house for 48 years. Few parliaments in the world have made as many difficult decisions in such a short time.” Peres also chose to address the Iranian threat, stating that it “would have to be dealt with in a manner that combined reasoning and daring. Iran is not only a threat to Israel; it is a threat to humanity…The current Iranian regime has imperialistic lust to become a regional ruler.” Peres did, however, send a message of peace to the people of Iran, saying, “we were not born enemies and there is no need for us to live as enemies.”

Other speakers at the special session included Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin and opposition Leader Tzipi Livni.