An undaunted spirit and fearless language characterizes the Hebrew press which has resumed publication after nine days of enforced silence.
Berl Katzenelson writing in the “Davar” of which he is the editor, declares: “Now that the incited mob has receded having met not only defenseless sheep, but men fighting for life, killing the assaulters, now that our stifled voice has pierced the barriers and horrified the world, compelling the enemy to drop arms, we have received the right to speak.” Quoting the words of High Commissioner Chancellor.” These crimes have brought upon their authors the execration of all civilized people.” the writer points out if this refers to the blinded, incited ignorants, then “seven fold be execrated the real authors, instigators, and incendiaries whether Moslem priests or British officials.”
Continuing, he says: “While the governors of Jerusalem, Hebron and Safed are still in their seats of power, our battle continues unabated. Not they will give us safety and peace of mind. The enemy aimed not only at the destruction of life and property of individuals, but aimed at killing the hope of Israel, intending to tell the Jewish people, ‘Give up your Zion! Your toil is scattered to the winds!’ But however vast our losses, the infernal plot has been frustrated. The defense of our work must continue. In our blood we shall live. The injured and aching shall not bow. We will not accept murder and robbery as a national liberation movement or the manifestation of religious fervor. Through all locked doors we shall tell the world the truth of our creation and our tortures. Let it be known that we are stubborn people. We will not be uprooted from our native soil.”
Yavneeli, another member of the staff of the “Davar,” writes: “The rulers ought to be led in chains into state jails.”
Beilinson, also writing in the “Davar,” says: “Chancellor’s proclamation is only a half truth, calling for the revelation of the whole truth and appropriate action. Otherwise the calm in the country will be like the calm in the cemeteries of Hebron and Safed.”
Ben Chorin writes in the “Doar Hayom”: The youth of Israel, persecuted by a malicious administration for daring to stand up against the assaulters, succeeded not only in defending themselves, their mothers and sisters, but also the British government, Palestine, and British prestige in the East.”
In an unsigned article appearing in the “Ha’aretz,” it is stated: “Chancellor’s proclamation is appeasing, but the Yishub expects deeds, the first of which is the administration of justice.
Typical of the reports of the attacks are the accounts which appeared in the “Davar.” Describing the attack on Nahalal, the paper writes: “Arab gang attacked vineyards. Shots exchanged. Assaulters fled, leaving one behind. Wounded tended in Moshav Clinic. Police informed. Since then quiet.”
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
