Israel Locates Intact Altalena Shipwreck 78 Years After 1948 Sinking

Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Amichai Eliyahu announced on Monday the discovery of the Altalena shipwreck off Israel's coast. The ship was found at a depth of 503 meters west of Israel during a maritime search operation that utilized advanced sensors and survey systems. The search, initiated and led by Eliyahu and Roni Sade, head of the Marine Mapping Department at the Survey of Israel, followed months of planning and preparation. Although the findings have not yet been publicly displayed, the ministers confirmed the ship was located intact. A press conference is scheduled later to present the evidence and documentation collected from the sea floor.

The Altalena arrived near Israel's shores in June 1948 carrying Irgun members, weapons, and military equipment. A violent confrontation between Irgun and IDF forces over the weapons led to the ship being shelled and sunk off Tel Aviv, resulting in the deaths of 16 Irgun members and three IDF soldiers. Ben-Gvir described the discovery as closing a historic chapter and honoring the memory of those who fell, while Eliyahu called it a pivotal moment for national remembrance and historical truth. Roni Sade highlighted the technological achievements that enabled the deep-sea discovery at over 500 meters.

This discovery marks a significant historical milestone for Israel, shedding new light on a defining and painful episode from the country's War of Independence. The forthcoming press briefing will provide further insights into the shipwreck and its condition after nearly eight decades underwater.