WARNING ON EFFECT OF A CAMPAIGN OF MASSACRES

“Zionism cannot be deterred by threats of killing,” says Mr. Shertok, head of the Jewish Agency in Palestine, in a telegram he sent yesterday in reply to the “ultimatum” from the Palestine Arab Defence Committee in Damascus.

The “ultimatum,” which was sent on Monday to Dr. Weizmann, head of the Zionist Organisation, reiterated the Arabs’ intention to oppose a Jewish majority in Palestine, and added: “Your attitude will create for you and all Jews in the East the worst of calamities so far written in history.”

Two days later the president of the Palestine Arab Defence Committee, Nabih el Azme, to whom Mr. Shertok’s reply is addressed, said: “The Arab guns are more effective than 2,000 foreign rifles when they fight for a sacred cause.”

Mr. Shertok’s reply (quoted by Reuter) says:

“That the Jews have stood in Palestine for three years against all onslaughts is an eloquent testimony that they cannot be intimidated.

“If the Arab neighbouring countries ever resorted to the practice of massacring Jews they would not prevent the realisation of Zionism, but would only disgrace themselves, just as the killing and burning of women and children in Tiberias will only remain a shameful stain on the record of the Palestine Arabs.

“We see a possibility for a full and fruitful co-operation in Palestine embracing Jews and Arabs as well as the neighbouring countries for the good of everyone concerned, but on the essential condition that the basic rights of Jewish people in Palestine are recognised. The realisation of Zionism can only be to the benefit of the Arabs.

“The Jews’ return to their ancient home is dictated by historical necessity, and no danger or threats would deflect the Jewish people from the path or stifle their urge for freedom.”

Original Source

October 14, 1938 | © The Guardian

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