1948 Arab-Israel War

April 3, 1949: Israel and Transjordan sign Armistice agreement . Both sides are...

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400

April 3, 1949: Israel and Transjordan sign Armistice agreement .

Both sides are bound to decide issues with no aggression. The Arab Legion will replace Iraqi army in north-central Palestine. There will be a neutral zone between the two countries, except Aqaba, where number of forces will remain the same.

A Committee of Arabs and Jews will work for peace with help from UN Security Council. Jews will control modern Jerusalem, and Arabs will control old Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Hebron, and central Palestine. The Dead Sea will be divided in half. There will be free travel on Tel Aviv-Jerusalem highway and Jerusalem-Bethlehem highway. Jerusalem’s water supply from Latrun, Palestine, which was cut by the Arabs,will be restored. Jews control Hadera-Afula road, northwest of Nablus-Jenin-Tulkarm.

More details of Armstice agreement at the UNISPAL website.

The complete text can also be viewed here.

Photo: Lebanese delegate signs Armistice agreement Lebanon and Israel sign Armistice...

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Photo: Lebanese delegate signs Armistice agreement

Lebanon and Israel sign Armistice agreement, March 23, 1949

Details of agreement here: http://bit.ly/YfLWoG

Operation Uvda, March 5-10, 1949

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On March 10 at 15:00, the Negev Brigade reached the abandoned police station at Umm Rashrash, (where the city of Eilat will later be built.)

Soldiers of the Brigade raise a hand-drawn Israeli flag (popularly known in Israel as the Ink Flag דֶּגֶל הַדְּיוֹ, Degel HaDyo). The soldier on the flag is Abraham Adan.

19th Regiment arrived at Umm Rash Rash at 17:00. The soldiers, who were better equipped than Negev Brigade soldiers, replaced the ink flag with a proper flag.

Commanders of the two divisions, Nahum Sarig and Nachum Golan sent a telegram by radio to HQ:

“On Hagana day, the 11th of Adar, the Palmach Negev brigade and the Golani brigade present the Gulf of Eilat to the State of Israel”

By taking Um-Rashrash, the connecting road between Trans-Jordan and Egypt, which had been used by British forces, was now cut off. Israeli forces controlled the whole of the Negev, which has been assigned to Israel in the UN partition plan of November 1947, except areas demilitarized in the Armistice deal with Egypt.

As Operation Uvda is the last military operation of the conflict, the raising of the flag at the police station is considered to mark the end of the war.

U N I T E D N A T I O N S Distr.RESTRICTEDA/AC.25/SR/G/1424 February 1949Original: English UNITED...

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

U N I T E D

N A T I O N S

Distr.
RESTRICTED

A/AC.25/SR/G/14
24 February 1949

Original: English

UNITED NATIONS CONCILIATION COMMISSION FOR PALESTINE

SUMMARY RECORD OF A MEETING BETWEEN THE CONCILIATION
COMMISSION AND HIS EXCELLENCY MR. MOSHE SHERTOK,
FOREIGN MINISTER OF ISRAEL,

held in Tel Aviv on 24 February 1949.

Present:
H.E. Mr. Moshe Shertok
- Foreign Minister of IsraelMr. Ethridge(U.S.A.)- ChairmanMr. de Boisanger(France)Mr. Yalchin(Turkey)Mr. Azcarate- Principal Secretary

After explaining the general nature of the Commission’s task, the CHAIRMAN raised the question of the refugees. The Arab Governments, he said, were unwilling to discuss other problems until that one had been settled satisfactorily. He expressed the earnest wish of the Commission to see the Government of Israel maintain an open mind on the question, as a first step toward the establishment of peace.

The FOREIGN MINISTER informed the Commission that the readiness of his Government-to readmit a certain number of refugees would depend on the nature of the peace settlement and could not be determined in advance. He pointed out that the State of Israel had changed its line of development as a result of the Arab exodus and there was now a completely different concept of the State than if a compact Arab minority had remained. The Foreign Minister declared that his Government could not accept the abstract principle of the right of individuals to return to their homes if they wished to do so, although it was prepared to accept the proprietary rights of the refugees. The problem, he maintained, could only be solved collectively. If Israel could feel convinced that the Arabs were genuinely willing to live in peace, it might be prepared to make concessions; but as long as that remained an unknown factor Israel could not commit itself.

The CHAIRMAN understood the reluctance of Israel to commit itself but pointed out that an acceptance in principle of the right of the refugees to return would be most helpful. The solution of the problem of the refugees, he said, might well be the key to the whole of the negotiations for peace.

The Chairman observed that the Arab Governments had shown a genuine desire for peace and that their apprehensions with regard to the intentions of Israel seemed greater than those of Israel towards the Arabs. The Chairman felt that an initial display of magnanimity on the part of Israel with regard to the refugees would establish a sound basis for negotiation.

The FOREIGN MINISTER replied that only by direct contact could such fears be dissipated. At Rhodes, for example, the Israeli delegation had convinced the Egyptians not only of Israel’s sincere desire for peace and stability but also of its lack of any aggressive intentions towards Egypt. Such personal, direct contact had had the effect of dispelling apprehension and fear and had paved the way for peace negotiations. It was the sincere wish of the Foreign Minister that such a meeting should take place if the Arabs genuinely desired peace and if they were willing to treat with the Government of Israel on a basis of equality. If, on the other hand, the Arabs did not want peace it would be impossible to speak of repatriation of the refugees.

The CHAIRMAN said that the refugees had become an internal problem for the Arab countries and a source of political unrest. He explained that the Commission was considering calling a meeting of the Arab countries to formulate a plan for the solution of the refugee problem, in the hope of breaking the existing deadlock. If the Government of Israel would be ready to make a gesture accepting in principle the right of the refugees to return to their homes, it would greatly facilitate such a meeting.

The FOREIGN MINISTER repeated that his Government was not prepared to proclaim formal acceptance of the principle of return of the refugees. He wondered whether by formulating at this stage a concrete view concerning the refugees, Israel would actually be helping the peace. He felt that the main factor in a solution of the problem would be resettlement of the refugees elsewhere, and repeated that the proportion of those who would be permitted to return would depend on the nature of the peace.

With regard to the proposed Arab conference, the Foreign Minister drew attention to the danger that the Arabs might take a strong line from which they would find it difficult to withdraw. The Foreign Minister said that he, on his part, would prefer to submit a practical plan to the individual Arab Governments.

With regard to Jerusalem, the CHAIRMAN informed the Foreign Minister of the Committee which had been established by the Commission to deal with the question, and expressed the hope that Israel would submit its full views on the matter or would appoint someone to collaborate with the Committee.

The FOREIGN MINISTER agreed to comply with this request and promised to inform the Commission within the next week of his Government’s decision with regard to the possibility of its making a conciliatory statement on the question of the right of the refugees to return to their homes.

A/AC.25/SR/G/14
24 February 1949

Original: English

President Chaim Weizmann's address opening the 1st session of the Israeli Constituent Assembly

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

“It is with a feeling of deep reverence and consecration that I rise to open the Constituent Assembly of the state of Israel the first Knesseth Israel of our time in this eternal city of Jerusalem.

“This is a great moment in our history. Let us give thanks and praise to the God of Israel, Who in His mercy, granted us the privilege of witnessing the redemption of cur people after centuries of affliction and suffering. Today’s event issued from the great awakening of national will that aroused our people in the last few generations. The first signs came about 70 years ago.

“The best among our people, men whose names were then unknown, arose to lead their generation towards fulfillment of the dream of all generations, towards the return to Zion and the restoration of Jewish nationhood.

Those who strove to realize this dream took two paths. The first was the way of spiritual revival and the return to the wellspring of Jewish tradition, the | renewal of the Hebrew language and literature, the gathering of the scattered forces of our people Into one bond, the public proclamation of our historic rights and the enlisting of help and support from the rulers of nations.

“Two gatherings mark decisive steps on this road the Katowice conference and the first Zionist Congress. The first conference led to the creation of the World Zionist Organization workshop where the vision hammered itself Into reality, and to the establishment of the Jewish Agency as the Zionist movement’s supreme political organ and the Instrument of colonization.

“Following this path, we secured the Balfour Declaration, the first external recognition of our right to settle as a nation in the land of our fathers.

“The second path, that of practical action, of carrying out things, was the, path taken by those who could not wait any longer for the nation to gird up its strength in exile and for others to recognize their rights.They thought to force God’s hand, as it were; theirs was the daring to go up to the land to try to hasten the redemption of their people by their own handiwork and by the sweat of their brows and by their life’s blood.

“These were the first pioneers the Biluim and all who followed the flag to carve out the road of return and to lay the stone on which the future would be built. In their footsteps came a new generation of immigrants to settle on the land, until the Yishuv was created.Those who took the second path also erected an organizational structure, institutions of self-government, local councils in towns and townships and assemblies of the new Jewish community, the Assefath Banivcharim and the Vaad Leumi, which also has its seat In this “building.

“It is a good while now since the two paths converged and like two members of one body helped reinforce each other until the great day nine months ago the fifth of Iyer 5708, 14 May 1948 when we proclaimed independence and the establishment of the state. The union of two friends was now completed

Then, compassed about as we were with blood, fire and pillars of smoke, with the Arab war waged against us from without and within our own house, with chaos bequeathed us by the Mandatory, we were not able to hold elections to lay the permanent foundations of our state. A provisional government was set up, comprising a legislature and an executive whose authority was derived’ from earlier elections. In this provisional government two former supreme institutions the Jewish Agency executive and the Vaad Leumi Joined together and were fused into one.

“Today we stand on the threshold of a new era. We leave the dawn light of provisional authority and enter the full sunshine of ordinary democratic rule. this Assembly was elected by a body of citizens. In the elections the will of the entire people was fully and freely expressed. From the outset we are building on solid foundations of freedom, equality, collective responsibility and national self-discipline.

“It was no longer an isolated band of pioneers who elected this Assembly, but an Independent nation dwelling in its own, free country. This nation is being conceived as a gathering in of the exiles, for there is not a Jewish community through that the world whose members have not a share in the state of Israel.

“Every day, to our hearts Joy, tens of thousands of our brethren from countries near and far are entering the gates of the country which stand wide open to receive them. It is our whole prayer that this gathering of exiles will increase and embrace an ever-larger multitude of our people who will strike roots here and work side by side with us in building the state and making our unproductive places “fruitful again. We will make this our goal before all else, to devote to it our best powers of thought and action.

“Heavy indeed is the responsibility laid on us in this Assembly. What we began nine months ago on the same date, we bring to completion tonight the restoration of the realm of Israel. If we are using stats forms molded by the experience, of the enlightened nations of the modern world, we know truly that these forms contain its treasured essence of the heritage of Israel.

“In the ancient world this tiny country of ours raised the standard of spiritual revolt against the rights of tyranny and brute force. The law of Israel and the vision of her prophets sounded a new epic of relations between man and man, a new ordering of human society. The authority of the King of Israel was limited by law and tradition; The prophets of Israel did not fear to utter rebuke and reproof to kings or princes, and with inspired words forged weapons to defend the poor and oppressed, stranger and slaves, and the orphan and the widow.

“The very principle of the institution of kingship was hateful to the spiritual leaders of the people. I will not rule over you nor shall my son rule over you. The Lord shall rule over us,’ declares the judge to the assembled people. The warning of the prophet against the dangers of tyranny thunder from on high to the ears of people to our last generation. “In Israel, this authority of one man was derived from the noble conception that people are naturally free and are freely accepting the rule that law and use judgment do not need compulsion from above to live as ordered by society. The root of the principle of the constitution of that novel state was the limit set for the authority of the king and in this sense the ancient Hebrew policy was the mother of constitutional government in the modern age,

“And now it has fallen to our generation to cement anew the links of that life of freedom that were snapped by tyranny’s force nearly 1,900 years ago. I do not know why it is precisely our generation that has been privileged to bring about what many generations before us longed for in the exiles of darkness. Unless we earned it by all the hardships, weariness, sorrow and tribulation that have been our portion during the past 70 years, when one-third of our nation was annihilated.

“We suffered torture and affliction as no other nation in the world and be-cause we are a remnant—and no more than a remnant—double and treble responsibility lays upon us to fill the terrible void in our national life.

“It is our people who once gave the whole world the spiritual message fundamental to civilization. The world is watching us now to see which way we choose for ourselves in ordering our lives, and is listening to hear whether a new message will go forth from Zion, and what that message will be. The new message was not born without travail and our creative spirit. The creative force of our nation will soon meet the new, serious challenge. The Assembly is called on to frame the will for the supreme test. Let us strive in search of the basis of human life. Let us build a new bridge between science and the spirit of man.

“This day is a great day in our lives. Let us not be over-arrogant if we say that this is a great day in the history of the world. In this hour a message of hope and good cheer goes forth from this place in the Sacred City to all oppressed people and to all who are struggling for freedom and equality. From this place we send fraternal blessings to our brethren throughout the world and to all states, great and small, that have recognized Israel.”

Knesset Members, I congratulate you on your first meeting. Remember that the eyes of the whole Jewish world are upon you, and that the yearning and prayers of past generations accompany you. May we all be worthy of this great moment and this immense responsibility.

Before we start our labors, let us remember the leaders and teachers of the nation, the founders of the (Zionist) movement and the commanders of our enterprise, whose vision and deeds have brought us to this moment. We reverence in particular the leader of the movement, the creator of political Zionism, Theodor Herzl; his colleague, the defender of his people, Max Nordau; Nahum Sokolow; our teacher and preacher, Ahad Ha’am; the genius of our poetry and our national culture, Chaim Nachman Bialik; the reviver of our Hebrew language, Eliezer Ben Yehuda; the pillar of devotion to Zion, Menahem Ussishkin; the flower of American Jewry, Louis Brandeis; and the great benefactor, the father of Jewish settlement, Edmond de Rothschild.

We remember all our brethren in this country and in the Zionist movement who have passed on without witnessing this day with us. We stand to attention and honor the memories of our precious and beloved children, those young heroes, who died so that the State of Israel might be established.

The First Knesset of the State of Israel is convened.

14 February 1949 (15 Shevat 5709)
Jewish Agency Building, Jerusalem, 4 p.m.

Compiled from several English sources. Original Hebrew will be posted at a later date.

Us Ambassador to Israel James G. McDonald’s request to...

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Us Ambassador to Israel James G. McDonald’s request to attend Opening Ceremony of new Israeli government. The request was denied as a result of a tripartite agreement among England, France and the US not to prejudice negotiations over Jerusalem.

Letter to the Editor

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

February 6, 1949

The Editor, The Palestine Post

Sir, — Mr. Bevin appears to hold the Jews responsible for the flight of the Palestine Arabs. Although the Israel military forces destroyed certain Arab villages and carried out wholesale transportation of their occupants, yet the primary responsibility for the panicky flight of the Arabs is the British Government’s. Whether intended or not, there can be no doubt that the mischief originated from the conduct of the British, and not from the attitude of the Israeli Government.

There is ample evidence for this statement.

The sequence of occurrences showed that the British Government had no intention or desire to enforce law and order, and that Palestine Administration was labouring to create an atmosphere permeated with fear and alarm. No effective measure was adopted by the authorities, civil and military, to ensure safety. On the contrary, they encouraged disorder and disobedience of the law, and countenanced insubordination. They allowed a large force of armed Arabs to infiltrate into the country, and to roam about with impunity. Palestine was virtually converted into two antagonistic armed camps under the eyes and nose of the Mandatory Power. Huge quantities of arms and ammunition were openly smuggled in, and recruiting and drilling of combatants became conimonplace events. …

Secondly, the idea that the Arabs should quit their homes was advanced, sponsored and propagated by the British. The Government of Palestine granted its officers three months’ pay in advance, and facilitated the departure on leave of Arab officers to adjacent territories. British companies, such as the Iraq Petroleum Company, and Steel Bros. & Company, unnecessarily transferred a part of their offices and the majority of their Arab employees to the Lebanon. And generally, the attitude of the responsible British authorities was such as to infuse into the minds and hearts of the Arab population a feeling of consternation and the belief that their departure was a logical necessity , or, at least, a prudent precaution.

Thirdly, it was the British, and not the Jews, who first put into effect the dislodgement and deportation of the Arab population. When conditions in Tiberias, where the friendly relations between Arabs and Jews formed a bright illustration of the possibility of the two communities co-operating, became acute, the British authorities forcibly transported the Arab inhabitants en masse to Trans-Jordan. They did not take any action toward pacification and restoration of peace and order. It was their evident duty to do so;- but instead of discharging their obligation with honesty and dignity they discarded it with ignominy, and compelled the Arabs to abandon their homes and belongings and seek refuge in the contiguous Arab territory.

Yours, etc.
E .N. KOUSSA

Elias N. Koussa was a well known and respected Arab lawyer in Haifa and former member of the Arab emergency committee

President Truman signs the order granting de jure recognition to Israel in presence of Frank...

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

President Truman signs the order granting de jure recognition to Israel in presence of Frank Goldman, National President of the B’nai B’rith, Maurice Bysgyer, National Secretary of B’nai B’rith, and Eddie Jacobson, his former business partner and friend.

Jews & Arabs throughout Israel begin to...

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Jews & Arabs throughout Israel begin to cast votes in 1st national election since establishment of state; President Dr. Chaim Weizmann, who has been confined to bed for a week, voted at Rehovoth [25 Jan 49]

On January 7, 1949, the RAF tangled with Israeli planes along...

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 14:52:00 -0500

On January 7, 1949, the RAF tangled with Israeli planes along the Negev-Sinai frontier; during one of the altercations, an RAF Tempest was shot down, and its pilot killed. He was Pilot Officer David Crossley Tattersfield, aged 22.

Several weeks later, David’s father Teddy received a remarkable letter, without the name of the author, but believed to have been written by American volunteer Bill Schroeder, who had shot Tattersfield down.

Thank you to the Tattersfield family for permission to reprint this letter and other material.

US Special Representative James G McDonald’s notes of meeting with Israeli PM Ben-Gurion...

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:39:32 -0500

US Special Representative James G McDonald’s notes of meeting with Israeli PM Ben-Gurion regarding British accusations that Israel has invaded Egyptian territory:

1. According to the Prime Minister, Israel troops are not invaders of Egypt; some forces crossed the line as part of a tactical operation but have already received orders to return.

2. As to the British intimation that they might take direct action if Israel did not abide by the Security Council resolutions, B.G. argued: Israel is in friendly touch with the Security Council and not in conflict with it. Britain cannot make itself sole judge of any alleged violation of Security Council recommendations; only the Security Council can be the judge.

3. Israel is engaged only in self-defense. It has been attacked by six Arab States whose troops are still on Palestine soil. As a small country, Israel must reserve the right of self-defense even if it goes down fighting.

4. The report that -Israel had threatened Jordan is deplorable. The exact opposite is the truth, for these negotiations for an armistice have proceeded in a friendly spirit.

Radio Remarks on the Occasion of the Lighting of the...

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Radio Remarks on the Occasion of the Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree on the White House Grounds, December 24, 1948

My fellow countrymen:

I now light the National Community Christmas Tree on the lawn of the White House in Washington.

I have come out here to Independence with my family to celebrate the great home festival. For of all the days of the year Christmas is the family day. Christmas began that way.

The moving event of the first Christmas was the bringing forth of the first born in the stable in Bethlehem. There began in humble surroundings the home life of the Holy Family glorified in song and story and in the hearts of men down through the centuries. The great joys and mysteries of that event have forever sanctified and enriched all home life.

The Christmas tree which we have just lighted in the South Grounds of the White House back in Washington symbolizes the family life of the Nation. There are no ties like family ties. That is why I have made the journey back to Independence to celebrate this Christmas Day among the familiar scenes and associations of my old hometown.

These family ties reach out tonight to embrace the town, the State, the country, all of America–the whole world. The hallowed associations of Christmas draw all hearts toward home. With one accord we receive with joy and reverence the message of the first Christmas: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will to men.”

This country, big as it has grown, has always been a close-knit community. It has had to be strong, too.

We needed the strength of giants and heroic courage to bring nature and the elements under control; to build our towns-and that is particularly true here in Independence-and to extend our frontiers. We all know what the covered wagon symbolized.

But with all our strength we have always had a deep feeling of compassion–a human sympathy for the underdog, the oppressed of all lands, for all who bear heavy burdens. That is a part of the American spirit.

I have been thinking of all these things here in my home on North Delaware Street in Independence. I am speaking to you from our family living room. As I came up the street in the gathering dusk, I saw a hundred commonplace things that are hallowed to me on this Christmas Eve–hallowed because of their associations with the sanctuary of home.

I saw the lighted windows in the homes of my neighbors, the gaily decked Christmas trees, and the friendly lawns and gardens. The branches of the trees were bare and stark but somehow they looked familiar and friendly. I looked at all these familiar things–the same things that you all will see tonight as you go toward home.

These are the thoughts–simple, commonplace, everyday thoughts–that we all share tonight.

They are the thoughts that bind us together, one to another. They make up the great American epic–the epic of the home.

Yes, America is a big, friendly community. Maybe that is why we realize that we are a part of the whole world.

We have had difficult problems, and that is why we can understand the problems of other peoples.

Our own struggle fostered this feeling of good will. And good will, after all, is the very essence of Christmas: peace and friendship to men of good will.

I want to say once more, with all the emphasis that I can command, that I am working for peace. I shall continue to work for peace. What could be more appropriate than for all of us to dedicate ourselves to the cause of peace on this Holy Night.

As a Nation we have a history of a little more than a century and a half. But the religion which came to the world heralded by the song of the Angels has endured for nineteen centuries. It will continue to endure. It remains today the world’s best hope for peace if the world will accept its fundamental teaching that all men are brothers.

“God that made the world and all things therein … hath made of one blood all nations of man for to dwell on all the face of the earth.”

In the spirit of that message from the Acts of the Apostles, I wish all of you a Merry Christmas.

Israeli Government communique to Brig Gen. William Riley, regarding resumption of fighting in Negev,...

Sat, 22 Dec 2012 13:26:16 -0500

Israeli Government communique to Brig Gen. William Riley, regarding resumption of fighting in Negev, December 23, 1948

“For the past two weeks the Israeli Government has been watching with great concern the steady deterioration of prospects for peace with Egypt. Following a visit to the Middle East early in December by U.N. mediator Ralph J. Bunche who felt that there was a good chance to secure agreement on the part of the Egyptian Government for the initiation of armistice talks in accordance with the resolution adopted by the U.N. Security Council, the Government of Israel was prepared, as a taken of good will, to order that a start be made in the evacuation of the Egyptian forces stationed at Faluja.

“Communication to this effect was made to Bunche on Dec. 9. Now the Israeli Government understands that the Government of Egypt changed its mind and is not willing to take any practical steps in the direction of peace. Egypt appears to be pinning itself to a single clause in the Security Council resolution in order to undo the main purpose which the Council had in mind, namely the conclusion of an armistice as a first step towards peace.

“As the Egyptian Government has done nothing to indicate its desire to achieve a peaceful settlement, the Government of Israel feels bound to reserve its freedom of action with a view to defending its territory and hastening the conclusion of the war.”

George Barnes, Press Officer for Acting Mediator Dr Ralph Bunche, says a delegation yesterday...

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:01:27 -0500

George Barnes, Press Officer for Acting Mediator Dr Ralph Bunche, says a delegation yesterday submitted a memorandum in Amman asserting they were representatives of Palestine’s Arabs who favoured “Abdullah’s rule over the Arab part of Palestine”

They asked Dr Bunche to remember there is “already too much outside interference in Palestine’s affairs” and to consider their best interests.

[6 Dec 48]

Einstein, Others, Denounce Menachem Begin TO THE EDITORS OF THE NEW YORK TIMES: Among the most...

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 15:40:11 -0500

Einstein, Others, Denounce Menachem Begin

TO THE EDITORS OF THE NEW YORK TIMES:

Among the most disturbing political phenomena of our times is the emergence in the newly created state of Israel of the “Freedom Party” (Tnuat HaHerut), a political party closely akin in its organization, methods, political philosophy and social appeal to the Nazi and Fascist parties. It was formed out of the membership and following of the former Irgun Zvai Leumi, a terrorist, right-wing, chauvinist organization in Palestine.

The current visit of Menachem Begin, leader of this party, to the United States is obviously calculated to give the impression of American support for his party in the coming Israeli elections, and to cement political ties with conservative Zionist elements in the United States. Several Americans of national repute have lent their names to welcome his visit. It is inconceivable that those who oppose fascism throughout the world, if correctly informed as to Mr. Begin’s political record and perspectives, could add their names and support to the movement he represents.

Before irreparable damage is done by way of financial contributions, public manifestations in Begin’s behalf, and the creation in Palestine of the impression that a large segment of America supports Fascist elements in Israel, the American public must be informed as to the record and objectives of Mr. Begin and his movement.

The public avowals of Begin’s party are no guide whatever to its actual character. Today they speak of freedom, democracy and anti-imperialism, whereas until recently they openly preached the doctrine of the Fascist state. It is in its actions that the terrorist party betrays its real character; from its past actions we can judge what it may be expected to do in the future.

Attack on Arab Village

A shocking example was their behavior in the Arab village of Deir Yassin. This village, off the main roads and surrounded by Jewish lands, had taken no part in the war, and had even fought off Arab bands who wanted to use the village as their base. On April 9 (THE NEW YORK TIMES), terrorist bands attacked this peaceful village, which was not a military objective in the fighting, killed most of its inhabitants — 240 men, women, and children; and kept a few of them alive to parade as captives through the streets of Jerusalem. Most of the Jewish community was horrified at the deed, and the Jewish Agency sent a telegram of apology to King Abdullah of Trans-Jordan. But the terrorists, far from being ashamed of their act, were proud of this massacre, publicized it widely, and invited all the foreign correspondents present in the country to view the heaped corpses and the general havoc at Deir Yassin.

The Deir Yassin incident exemplifies the character and actions of the Freedom Party.

Within the Jewish community they have preached an admixture of ultranationalism, religious mysticism, and racial superiority. Like other Fascist parties they have been used to break strikes, and have themselves pressed for the destruction of free trade unions. In their stead they have proposed corporate unions on the Italian Fascist model. During the last years of sporadic anti-British violence, the IZL and Stern groups inaugurated a reign of terror in the Palestine Jewish community. Teachers were beaten up for speaking against them, adults were shot for not letting their children join them. By gangster methods, beatings, window-smashing, and wide-spread robberies, the terrorists intimidated the population and exacted a heavy tribute. The people of the Freedom Party have had no part in the constructive achievements in Palestine. They have reclaimed no land, built no settlements, and only detracted from the Jewish defense activity. Their much-publicized immigration endeavors were minute, and devoted mainly to bringing in Fascist compatriots.

Discrepancies Seen

The discrepancies between the bold claims now being made by Begin and his party, and their record of past performance in Palestine bear the imprint of no ordinary political party. This is the unmistakable stamp of a Fascist party for whom terrorism (against Jews, Arabs, and British alike), and misrepresentation are means, and a “Leader State” is the goal.

In the light of the foregoing considerations, it is imperative that the truth about Mr. Begin and his movement be made known in this country. It is all the more tragic that the top leadership of American Zionism has refused to campaign against Begin’s efforts, or even to expose to its own constituents the dangers to Israel from support to Begin. The undersigned therefore take this means of publicly presenting a few salient facts concerning Begin and his party; and of urging all concerned not to support this latest manifestation of fascism.

(signed) ISIDORE ABRAMOWITZ, HANNAH ARENDT, ABRAHAM BRICK, RABBI JESSURUN CARDOZO, ALBERT EINSTEIN, HERMAN EISEN, M.D., HAYIM FINEMAN, M. GALLEN, M.D., H.H. HARRIS, ZELIG S. HARRIS, SIDNEY HOOK, FRED KARUSH, BRURIA KAUFMAN, IRMA L. LINDHEIM, NACHMAN MAISEL, SEYMOUR MELMAN, MYER D. MENDELSON, M.D., HARRY M. OSLINSKY, SAMUEL PITLICK, FRITZ ROHRLICH, LOUIS P. ROCKER, RUTH SAGIS, ITZHAK SANKOWSKY, I.J. SHOENBERG, SAMUEL SHUMAN, M. SINGER, IRMA WOLFE, STEFAN WOLFE

Dec. 2, 1948

Letter to Editor, New York Times, December 4, 1948

Distr.UNRESTRICTEDS/109329 November 1948ORIGINAL:...

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Distr.
UNRESTRICTED

S/1093
29 November 1948

ORIGINAL: ENGLISH

LETTER DATED 29 NOVEMBER 1948 FROM ISRAEL’S FOREIGN MINISTER

TO THE SECRETARY-GENERAL CONCERNING ISRAEL’S APPLICATION

FOR ADMISSION TO MEMBERSHIP OF THE UNITED NATIONS AND DECLARATION ACCEPTING OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE CHARTER

Paris, 29 November 1948

On May 14 1948, the independence of the State of Israel was proclaimed by the National Council of the Jewish people in Palestine by virtue of the natural and historic right of the Jewish people to independence in its own sovereign State and in pursuance of the General Assembly resolution of November 29, 1947. Since that date Israel has been consolidated administratively and defended itself successfully against the aggression of neighbouring States. It has so far achieved recognition by nineteen Powers.

On behalf of the Provisional Government of Israel, I have now the honour to request the admission of Israel as a Member of the United Nations in accordance with Article 4 of the Charter.

In view of the special nature of this application I would request that its consideration should proceed without regard to the deadlines fixed by rule 60, paragraphs 1-4, but in conformity with paragraph 5 of the same rule 60 of the provisional rules of procedure of the Security Council.

A formal declaration that the Government of Israel accepts all the obligations stipulated in the United Nations Charter is enclosed.

My Government submits that Israel’s admission to the United Nations will constitute an act of international justice to the Jewish people, fully consistent with United Nations policy on Palestine, and will contribute to the stabilization of the Middle East and to the cause of international peace.

(Signed) Moshe Shertok
Minister for Foreign Affairs of the
Provisional Government of Israel

Source: UNISPAL

ORDER OF THE DAY, 25 November 1948

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 03:54:16 -0500

Order of the Day, Moshe Carmel, Commander, Givati Brigade, OC Northern Front

“Our brilliant victory ..in the Galilee was marred as some soldiers allowed themselves a shameful outburst by looting and condemnable crimes against the Arab population after its surrender…. Ill-treatment of the inhabitants, murder and robbery - are not a military activity or acts of courage. They are a disgrace to our army…The perpetrators of these crimes during the operation and in its wake are standing trial and will be punished….[but] it has come to my attention that even now such displays of unrestrained behaviour have not completely ceased. These acts must cease immediately, and will all severity [sic]. Anyone caught committing another crime will be tried immediately and will be most severely punished.”

“I ask the commanders and troops in Northern Front to help stamp out this corruption. Whoever covers for the criminal - is an accomplice in the crime and he too will not be cleared of responsibility….Honour to the loyal and liberating Hebrew fighter, respect for the pure, defending and crushing Hebrew arms.”

IDFA 437/49/84, Carmel, “Order of the Day” 25 November 1948

TERRORIST GROUP ARRESTED IN CAIRO Police Action Against Members of Moslem...

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:53 -0500

TERRORIST GROUP ARRESTED IN CAIRO

Police Action Against Members of Moslem Brotherhood Is Said to Solve Outrages

By DANA ADAMS SCHMIDT

CAIRO — Egyptian police have arrested thirty members of the largest terrorist organization in Egypt and have solved the mystery of a series of bombings, political assassinations and attempted assassinations, authoritative quarters disclosed today.

These quarters announced tonight that men arrested in a jeep loaded with explosives last Monday were members of the Moslem Brotherhood, militant Moslem nationalist movement. Others, arrested in the house of one of the passengers in the jeep, also belonged to the Brotherhood.

Explosives, sufficient, according to the newspaper Al Zaman, “to blow up a whole quarter of Cairo”, have been confiscated. In house searches accompanying the arrests, police found documents, maps and drawings indicating the plans for further assassinations and for the bombing of department stores and foreign and Egyptian institutions in Cairo and Alexandria.

It was stated that documents found in the jeep led to the discovery of “very huge amounts of explosives in other places”. The condition of the high explosives indicated that they were being used for “large-scale acts of destruction”.

The jeep itself contained “large amounts of explosive materials, fuses, dozens of various kinds of mines, time-bomb detonators, a machine gun, a large number of revolvers and tommy guns, daggers, ammunition, a mask, leaflets and secret instructions and documents referring to previous explosions as well as others in preparation”.

According to the authoritative account, a detective approached the jeep on Monday afternoon. It lacked a number plate and was parked in front of a house in the Waili sector of the Abbasia district. It contained closed cases and filled sacks.

As soon as they saw the detective, the jeep’s passengers fled. The detective, with a fireman and a passerby, gave chase and caught several of them.

The Prosecutor General’s office is continuing the investigation.

The Brotherhood was headed by Hassan El Bana, its “Supreme Guide”, who recently had made a pilgrimage to Mecca. It is considered to be a powerful extremist organization, combining religion with nationalist appeals. Founded twenty years ago by El Bana, a former school teacher, it now claims 1,000,000 members in Egypt and many more in Arab and Moslem countries.

Leaflets and other papers found show that the persons involved were motivated by the belief that the individuals and the organizations they attacked and planned to attack had connections with Zionists.

The following list of outrages was attributed to the terrorist organization: the explosion outside the house of Mustapha El Nahas, president of the WAFD, early in the year; the attempted bombing of the Sudan Agency; bombing of department stores of Ades, Ben Zion, Gettegno, the Delta Land Company and the Société Orientale de Publicité and the most recent tommy-gun attempt on the life of Nahas Pasha.

Saleh Ashmawi, editor in chief of the Moslem Brotherhood`s daily newspaper, declared late tonight that none of the men arrested were really members of the Brotherhood and that the charges levelled against the organization were a frame-up.

After meeting with British Prime Minister Attlee on 15 November, Ambassador Douglas wires Under...

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 13:35:53 -0500

After meeting with British Prime Minister Attlee on 15 November, Ambassador Douglas wires Under Secretary of State Robert Lovett two days later:

“While the British JCS (Joint Chief of Staff) hopes [Israel] will be friendly it has concluded that it would be unsafe to rely on upon [Israel] to give British Air installations in the Negev with free access”

[17 Nov 48]

Photo: Egyptian soldiers at Iraq Suwaydan surrender to Jewish...

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 16:25:00 -0500

Photo: Egyptian soldiers at Iraq Suwaydan surrender to Jewish forces [9 Nov 48]