Page:Ford, Kissinger, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin - September 12, 1974(Gerald Ford Library)(1552784).pdf/5

Rh But I think we do need from you a commitment on the time and substance as we work out military arrangement. How, for example, can we resolve the Egyptian problem? We must find some specifics.

I think it is impossible for Egypt to move alone. Whichever comes first, the other must follow quickly. The Palestinian problem will become impossible for us if there isn't something for Jordan.

I gather from Prime Minister Rabin's comments, something that ties in. This morning the Democratic Leadership indicated there would be a post-election session. This could be beneficial in getting Congress to move on the longer-range program. We would like to start movement in October on the negotiation.

I have told the Israelis that we would delay as long as possible. We are at the point where something is needed. My trip could delay until November, but then things must move or they will go to Geneva as a gang. If by the time I go to Israel we could have an understanding of the limits within which we will operate,... We need a method -- not shuttle diplomacy -- for the negotiations. Our goal shall be to work out such a strategy through Dinitz, then talking with Allon, and my trip, so by then we have a procedure. This is my idea for proceeding.

We may have to argue here and there, but I see no objection.

We have no specific plan, no lines.

We have nothing specific worked out with the Cabinet.

We need only a rough idea of whether we are talking ten kilometers or something else.

On military equipment, we are thinking of a 4.5 billion authorization with appropriation as needed.

The Congress, rightly or wrongly, doesn't make these long-term commitments. Maybe a two-or-three year authorization with appropriations to fill the pipeline.

That is just what we have in mind.