Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Opposing Arab Groups United in Defense of Jerusalem Mayor’s Attack on Jews

May 17, 1944
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Several opposing Arab political groups in Palestine today united in defending the Arab mayor of Jerusalem, Mustafa Bey Khalidi, for his anti-Jewish remarks at a conference of Arab mayors at which stronger measures against Jewish immigration and land acquisition were demanded of the Palestine Government.

The Arab National Defense Party, led by the Nashashibi family, today issued a manifesto “to the noble Arab people” calling upon all Arabs to unite “for the defense of our threatened homeland.” The manifesto contains a pledge by the Defense Party to make sacrifices and to act in accordance with decisions and the interests of the country.”

The Hebrew press today continues to support the attitude of the Jewish aldermen who demonstratively walked out of the Jerusalem municipal council in protest against the anti-Jewish remarks of the Arab mayor, and who have not returned since. The Hebrew newspaper Hatzofeh says that the Jews ought to learn a lesson from the conference of the Arab mayors. “These mayors, the paper points out,” were unanimous in their resolutions denouncing the Jews as enemies of the Arab people. None of them proposed any agreement with the Jews on the basis of a bi-national Arab-Jewish state. Whereas among us, even the extremists wish Arab-Jewish understanding, cooperation and friendship.”

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement