Was the Irgun Responsible for Targeting Civilians?

The Irgun, a Jewish paramilitary organization active during the British Mandate of Palestine, has faced criticism over allegations that it targeted civilians during its operations. However, many historical sources and analyses suggest that the Irgun took measures to avoid civilian casualties and focused primarily on British military and administrative targets.

Understanding the Context

The Irgun operated in a complex and often hostile environment during the 1940s, characterized by a mandate to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine under British control. This context is crucial for understanding the organization's actions and objectives.

No, Targeting Was Not About Civilians

It is frequently claimed that the Irgun targeted civilians as a matter of course. However, this is not entirely accurate. The organization, while engaged in violent activities, did not intentionally target civilians simply because they were civilians. The Irgun recognized that any targeting of civilians would have brought greater British force against its cause and would undermine its broader objectives.

Primary Targeting of Military and Administrative Installations

The Irgun's primary focus was on British military and administrative installations, which would have included civilians in many cases. For example, during the bombing of the King David Hotel (1946), the Irgun made every effort to ensure that the facility was empty before the attack. Unfortunately, British hubris prevented a full evacuation, leading to significant civilian casualties. This event, while tragic, illustrates the Irgun's efforts to minimize civilian harm.

Strategic Planning and Warnings

Wherever civilians might be at risk, the Irgun made great efforts to provide ample advance warnings. Evidence from historical records shows that the organization often relayed information about their planned actions to British authorities, allowing them time to evacuate the areas. However, in cases like the King David Hotel bombing, British intransigence and overconfidence led to the tragic outcome.

Intertwining with Other Groups

It's important to note that the Irgun was not alone in its approach. Other groups, such as Lehi, the Betar, and the Stern Gang, also engaged in targeted attacks. These groups often used terror tactics to achieve their objectives, sometimes with the support or integration with the Irgun. However, the exact nature of their collaboration and the extent of civilian targeting remains a subject of historical debate.

Menachem Begin's Perspective

Menachem Begin, a prominent figure in the Irgun and later the Prime Minister of Israel, addressed this question directly. He stated unequivocally that he fought against the British Army, not innocent civilians. This stance highlights the Irgun's efforts to distinguish between military and civilian targets.

Conclusion

In summary, the Irgun’s actions were primarily focused on British military and administrative targets, with minimal regard for civilian casualties. While they certainly engaged in violent activities, they made concerted efforts to avoid targeting civilians, recognizing the broader implications of such actions. The tragic events, like the King David Hotel bombing, were exceptions to the rule, driven by British inaction rather than Irgun malice.