Tension Rises in Holy Land As New Killing Follows Tiberias Clashes

The murder of a Jewish teacher today, following disorders in Tiberias in which 66 persons were injured and sporadic violence in the vicinity, resulted in increased tension.

Haim Brook, 21, recently arrived from Germany, was found stabbed to death near Beth Alpha with a blood-stained scrapbook near his body containing his last words: “Arabs stabbed me. I’m dying. Greetings to family and friends.”

Seven o’clock curfew was in force in Tiberias after clashes which began when Arabs stoned a bus carrying Revisionist youths. Two British and a Palestinian policeman were injured when Arabs stoned the police station to free one of their number arrested. The disorders arose from tension accompanying a Jewish counter-boycott against the Arabs.

Next day a Jewish bus was stoned and three passengers slightly injured while Jews stoned a busload of Hauranis, injuring one. Six Jews were arrested and five of them sentenced to terms varying between six months and two years. Three Arabs were arrested and two sentenced to one and two years’ imprisonment respectively.

Brith Trumpeldor wired Chief Secretary John Hathorn-Hall today charging that a Government communique on the disturbances conveyed the impression the organization was responsible and assorting Arab agitation was responsible. A corrected communique was demanded.

Hebrew newspapers severely criticized the Government’s conduct in connection with the disorders. They insisted on Jews’ rights of self-defence and scored the suggestion attributed to administrative officials that Jews hide from attackers. Davar charged the authorities had intentionally concealed Arab boycott agitation carried on for weeks.

The Tiberias Municipal Council, comprising Jews and Arabs, appealed to both communities to cease boycott activities and preserve peace. District Commissioner Blackborn visited the scene and said orders had been given to suppress further disturbances and prevent them from spreading.