Exchange With Reporters Prior to Discussions With Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin of Israel
Middle East Peace Talks
Q. Mr. President, what do you think are the chances of resuming the Middle East peace talks if deportees are not returned immediately?
The President. I think the Secretary of State's done a commendable job on his trip, and he's worked with the Prime Minister on that issue. And I think we've got a good chance to resume the talks. I certainly hope we will.
Q. Do you think all the parties will come back?
The President. I certainly hope so.
Q. Sir, as you prepare for the first peace talks under your guidance, what do you think the prospects are for a lasting peace in the Middle East?
The President. I think there are a lot of reasons to be hopeful. Obviously, there's difficulty, and there are those who would prefer that it not be done, but I think we have a real shot.
[At this point, one group of reporters left the room, and another group entered.]
Q. Mr. President, do you think the United States could be helpful in bringing peace between Israel and Syria? Are you optimistic that peace between these two countries can come during this year?
The President. Well, I hope that the peace process will resume shortly. And I'm hopeful that it can produce a good result. I think there's a chance.
Q. What is your reaction to terrorist action in Israel today and the day before? If you've heard about it, what do you think about it?
The President. Yes, I've heard about it, and I'm disturbed about it. I hope it won't deter any of the parties involved from seeking a genuine long-term peace. But the larger security interests of all the nations involved still argue for trying to have a good-faith effort at the peace process.
NOTE: The exchange began at 10:35 a.m. in the Oval Office at the White House.
William J. Clinton, Exchange With Reporters Prior to Discussions With Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin of Israel Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/219209