We are after a weekend of air strikes in Gaza. Yesterday we heard about
an 'ultimatum' from Hamas to Israel. At no stage will Israel accept
any ultimatum from Hamas. Israel will continue to act in
accordance with Israeli interests and for Israel's security alone.
On Friday, my wife and I returned from a
historic diplomatic visit to Oman. I met with the leader of Oman;
Sultan Qaboos bin Said, a very experienced and impressive man.
This is Israel's first official visit to Oman in 22 years.
This visit comes against the background of
diplomatic efforts that I have been promoting in recent years
vis-a-vis the Arab countries. In our long meeting we discussed
in detail the challenges facing the Middle East.
These were important talks - both for the State of Israel and very
important talks for Israel's security. There will be more.
Israel is a state present in the region, and we all understand this.
The world is also aware of this and maybe it is time for Israel
to be treated the same and to also bear the same obligations.