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Israel's History:
1969
1969:
by Jackie Silberman, 2002-2003 EPA Israel Affairs VP
If you've ever been sitting in class, wondering what happened in Israel in 1969, then
you're in luck! Because here is your overview of 1969 in Israel. See? Woodstock wasn't
the only thing going on then...
The most significant event of 1969 was probably the War of Attrition (Feb. 1969-Aug.
1970). Basically, this was a series of constant military activity between Israel and
Egypt (leaders at the time were Meir and Nasser, respectively). After the Six-Day War
two years prior, the reputation of the Arab states was greatly tarnished by Israel. At
this time Israel occupied the Sinai Peninsula, the Suez canal was closed to shipping,
and Israel heavily guarded the eastern side of the canal.
As tensions grew and, consequently, casualties on both sides, the U.S. Secretary of
State, William Rogers, issued a document very similar to that of UN resolution 242. This
document became known as the Rogers Plan. Basically, UN resolution 242 says that a
formal peace be established between the two nations, an international frontier between
the two be established, and sound, recognized borders be established. Also, negotiations
on Gaza and Sharm el Sheikh as well as demilitarized zones would ensue. In November 1969,
Israel rejected the plan and in January 1970, Israeli fighter planes made deep
incursions into Egypt.
Basically, the rest of the War of Attrition involves more fighting, and finally, in
August of 1970, Israel accepting a cease-fire and the application of resolution 242.
Also, in 1969:
- Levi Eshkol, third Prime Minister of Israel, dies on Feb. 26th.
- September 25-26
Prime Minister Golda Meir speaks with U.S. President Nixon in Washington D.C.; the talks
basically had to do with the conflict with Egypt.
- March 7th
Golda Meir, the first and only female Prime Minister of Israel, is nominated by the
Labor Party.
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