📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Hans Pinn
International
IDF Archives Reveal Ben-Gurion’s 1956 Remark on Gaza
✍️ ThePrint
🗓 10 Nov 2026, 10:49 AM
👁 14
Archives from the Israel Defense Forces have disclosed a 1956 statement by Israel's first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion, in which he expressed a desire for Gaza to sink into the sea.
Historical documents recently uncovered in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) archives have brought to light a controversial remark made by David Ben-Gurion, the first Prime Minister of Israel. The statement, dated 1956, contains a phrase wishing that Gaza would sink into the sea.
The revelation has sparked attention regarding the historical context of Israel's early policies and leadership statements. As the founding leader, Ben-Gurion's words from that era are being scrutinized by historians and observers alike.
The documents were part of a broader release of archival material, providing new insights into the diplomatic and military mindset of the nascent state during the mid-20th century. This specific comment highlights the complex and often contentious nature of the region's history.
While the statement is from nearly seven decades ago, its recent disclosure continues to fuel discussions about the legacy of Israel's founding leaders and their views on the Palestinian territories.
The revelation has sparked attention regarding the historical context of Israel's early policies and leadership statements. As the founding leader, Ben-Gurion's words from that era are being scrutinized by historians and observers alike.
The documents were part of a broader release of archival material, providing new insights into the diplomatic and military mindset of the nascent state during the mid-20th century. This specific comment highlights the complex and often contentious nature of the region's history.
While the statement is from nearly seven decades ago, its recent disclosure continues to fuel discussions about the legacy of Israel's founding leaders and their views on the Palestinian territories.