This day in history: UN resolution on the creation of a Jewish state
On November 29, 1947, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 181, proposing to divide the territory of the British Mandate in Palestine into two states — Jewish and Arab, with Jerusalem to be made an international zone. The decision was made by a majority vote: 33 in favor, 13 against, and 10 abstentions.
History of the Resolution’s Adoption
In February 1947, Britain referred the question of Palestine’s future to the UN. The Special Committee on Palestine (UNSCOP) recommended dividing the territory and establishing a special status for Jerusalem.
The Jewish population accepted this compromise, despite the reduction in territory and lack of control over Jerusalem. Arab leaders and residents rejected the proposal. Nonetheless, on November 29, 1947, the resolution was approved.
Consequences of the Resolution
The Arab side’s refusal to accept the resolution led to increased tension and the start of an armed conflict. After the declaration of Israel’s independence on May 14, 1948, the armies of five Arab states: Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq, attacked it. Despite the numerical superiority of the enemy, the young Jewish state won the War of Independence.
Many Arab residents became refugees. Those who remained within Israel’s borders received citizenship. Jewish refugees from Arab countries were accepted by Israel.
After the war, the Gaza Strip came under Egyptian control, and the West Bank and East Jerusalem under Jordanian control. However, a Palestinian state was not established.
The conflict between Israelis and Palestinians continues, and the search for a peaceful solution remains relevant. Despite attempts to normalize relations between Israel and some Arab countries, the Palestinian leadership still does not recognize Israel as a Jewish state.
If a mutually acceptable agreement could have been reached in 1947, many tragedies could have been prevented. However, history does not know the subjunctive mood.
