Altalena Shipwreck Found Intact 503 Meters Off Israeli Coast After 78 Years

After months of planning and a complex maritime search operation, the Altalena shipwreck was located intact at a depth of 503 meters west of Israel's coast. The discovery occurred at 00:30 on Monday using a vessel equipped with advanced sensors and survey systems. The search mission was initiated by Israel's Minister of Heritage, Amichai Eliyahu, and led by Roni Sade, head of the Marine Mapping Department at the Survey of Israel.

The Altalena arrived in Israel in June 1948 carrying approximately 930 immigrants, including Irgun fighters, as well as weapons and military equipment. A violent confrontation ensued between the Irgun and the newly formed Israeli government over the ship's cargo, resulting in the deaths of 16 Irgun members and three IDF soldiers. After clashes in Kfar Vitkin, the ship reached Tel Aviv's shores, where it was shelled and set ablaze on June 22, 1948, before sinking off Nabi Rubin beach.

At a forthcoming press conference, officials will present the latest findings and underwater documentation from the wreck site. Minister Eliyahu described the discovery as a "defining moment for our national memory," emphasizing the mission's goal to reveal historical truth and preserve the story of the ship's heroes for future generations. Roni Sade highlighted the use of advanced technology and the dedication of the professional team that enabled the deep-sea identification. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called the event a closure of a historic chapter and praised the intelligence and operational efforts that led to this significant breakthrough.