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British Troops Receive Death Threats

September 1, 1936
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British officers stationed here have received death-threat letters bearing the signature “Revolting Arab.”

The letter, written in clumsy English, says in part:

“You British officers when Arabs speak to you privately, you always disapprove of the stupid policy of the Government and the High Commission in Palestine. You agree with us that we are being treated very unjustly. However, in your official capacity you follow the instructions of the High Commissioner and thus act contrary to your conscience and your statements to us.

“You know that the High Court has decided how nonsensical and illegal all activities of the Government and the High Commissioner are, and you are one of the members executing his policy.

“Beware. We are not going to remain on the hills and mountains and shoot people from there. We are coming into the towns and if you don’t change your policy we are going to kill you.”

The letter contains many allegations of cruelties perpetrated by British soldiers, including accusations of assaults on Arab women.

By the mention of the High Court, the writer of the letter referred to the recent invalidation by the Palestine Supreme Court of collective fines imposed on Arab towns.

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