Bidspirit auction | Broadside “On the Security Situation

Broadside “On the Security Situation – Residents of Jerusalem!” – Call to Join the Yishuv Security Forces – Communist Party of Palestine, Jerusalem, April 1947 - A political and historical broadside issued by the Jerusalem branch of the Communist Party of Palestine and printed in Jerusalem on April 21, 1947, amid escalating tensions during the final years of the British Mandate. Addressed directly to the residents of Jerusalem, the broadside prominently warns: “Our independence is in danger.” Its authors accuse British imperialism of encouraging confrontation between Jews and Arabs in an effort to provoke mutual bloodshed and obstruct the country’s movement toward political independence. Under the heading “It Is Still Not Too Late, ” the text argues that further disturbances could still be prevented. It refers to Arab groups opposed to violence and cites incidents in Jaffa and Ramallah in which Arabs reportedly prevented attacks on Jews. It also mentions a proposal by the mukhtar of Lifta and Jewish residents of Romema to establish a joint security committee to prevent unrest. The section titled “The Tasks of the Hour” calls upon the Jewish population to avoid independent retaliatory actions and praises the positive role played by the Haganah in preventing provocations against Arabs. The Haganah is described as the only Yishuv institution that should be responsible for the defense of the Jewish community. The broadside further demands an appeal to the United Nations Security Council, seeking to remove responsibility for public security from the British Mandatory authorities. The broadside concludes with the prominently printed slogans: “Join the ranks of the Yishuv security forces!” “Defend the peace – prevent provocations!” Signed: Communist Party of Palestine, Jerusalem Branch – Local Committee. Printed by Defus Israel, Jerusalem. Printed date: April 21, 1947. Dimensions: 35 × 25 cm. Very good condition, with natural age-related toning, minor stains and light handling marks. An important documentary item reflecting the Communist Party’s position regarding Jewish–Arab relations, British rule, the United Nations and the role of the Haganah during the closing period of the British Mandate.