Israel Locates Altalena Shipwreck After 78 Years in Mediterranean Sea

Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Amichai Eliyahu announced the discovery of the Altalena shipwreck in the Mediterranean Sea, 503 meters deep and west of Israel's coast. The ship was found intact following a complex maritime search operation that lasted several months, utilizing advanced sensors and survey systems. The search was initiated by Minister of Heritage Amichai Eliyahu and managed by Roni Sade, head of the Marine Mapping Department at the Survey of Israel.

The Altalena arrived in Israel in June 1948 carrying Irgun fighters, weapons, and military equipment. The confrontation surrounding the ship became one of the most painful and defining events in the early history of the State of Israel, resulting in the deaths of 16 Irgun members and three IDF soldiers.

Itamar Ben-Gvir described the discovery as "closing a historic circle on one of the most painful and formative events in Israeli society," emphasizing the effort's role in honoring historical truth, fallen fighters, and national unity. Amichai Eliyahu called the finding a "pivotal moment for national memory," highlighting the mission to reveal historical truth and preserve the story of the ship's heroes for future generations.

Roni Sade credited advanced technology and dedicated professional work for reaching the shipwreck at such depth. Hagai Ronen, CEO of the Survey of Israel, expressed pride in contributing to this national effort to document and preserve a significant chapter in Israel's history. A press conference presenting the latest findings and underwater documentation is planned, with details to be announced later.