Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was optimistic about peace on Monday, even as he stood firm on the issue of a unified Jerusalem and promised yet again to address the continued threat to southern Israel from Kassam rockets launched by Palestinians.
"Today, on the 41st year after the Six-Day War, the time is way past due to finally close the chapters of war," Olmert said during a ceremony at Ammunition Hill marking the event.
"The more we try to create a horizon of peace, hope, and light - the people of the dark plot indiscriminant death," he continued. "The more we turn to the other side with our hand extended to press their hand, they press the trigger."
"Kassam rocket fire at the Gaza periphery communities is insufferable and unforgivable," Olmert said, and speaking to the residents of the south, added:
"My heart is with you. You are paying a heavy toll on your quality of life, especially for your kids."
"The hour of decision is near," the prime minister again promised. "The threat which is endangering them will be removed one way or another. I've said in the past that I prefer route of dialogue, and indeed the government is trying to come to a ceasefire agreement in this way.
"I believe that there is no contradiction between the complete loyalty of the people of Israel to Jerusalem and its unity, and between our aspiration to create a peace within it," Olmert said.
"Israel knows how to keep Jerusalem united," he concluded.
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