The media is revisiting key moments in Jimmy Carter life as part of its coverage of the former president’s death. Among his significant achievements, Carter’s success at the Camp David Accords stands out, where he brokered a historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel. Diplomatic Writer Barry Schweid covered Carter’s announcement on September 17, 1978.
On that day, President Carter declared a “framework for peace” in the Middle East, achieved through talks with Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin. Standing alongside them, Carter emphasized that the signed documents would ensure Israel’s security within recognized borders.
The agreement committed Egypt and Israel to finalize a peace treaty within three months, marking the first official recognition of Israel by an Arab neighbor since 1948. Begin urged for a quicker resolution, and Sadat agreed. The framework also outlined Israel’s withdrawal from the Sinai Peninsula and West Bank, while maintaining a limited military presence for security.
Carter confirmed that the 1.1 million Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip would have a say in their future. The Sinai agreement involved phased Israeli troop withdrawals and a gradual transfer of sovereignty to Egypt. In return, Egypt would establish diplomatic relations with Israel, a significant step in ending their decades-long conflict.
The televised announcement from the White House highlighted the leaders’ camaraderie. Begin praised Carter’s relentless effort, likening it to the labor of building Egypt’s pyramids. Sadat expressed gratitude for Carter’s dedication, praying the “spirit of Camp David” would transform the Middle East. After signing the agreement, the leaders embraced, signaling a shared commitment to peace.
Although challenges remained, including the status of Israeli settlements and the final disposition of Palestinian territories, the agreement laid the groundwork for future negotiations. Carter’s leadership at Camp David earned praise from both Sadat and Begin, who acknowledged his lasting impact on their nations’ histories. The summit, conducted under intense secrecy, concluded with optimism for a treaty by Christmas.
This landmark agreement symbolized a breakthrough in Middle Eastern diplomacy, setting the stage for further peace efforts in the region. Carter’s perseverance and vision were pivotal in achieving this milestone.
