Itamar Ben-Gvir Claims Credit for Historic Discovery of Altalena Shipwreck Off Israeli Coast

On Monday, the far-right Otzma Yehudit party announced the discovery of the Altalena, the Irgun ship sunk in 1948, in an unusual release via the party's WhatsApp group. The announcement was framed as a joint revelation by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu, though the search project was funded by the Ministry of Heritage at a cost of one million shekels. Ben-Gvir declared the find a "historic day" and emphasized the importance of unity despite disagreements, while Eliyahu called the discovery a pivotal moment for national memory.

The announcement sparked controversy as Ben-Gvir effectively took over a state project managed by the Ministry of Heritage and quickly publicized the find, sidelining Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who were reportedly unaware of the discovery despite knowing about the search efforts. The search was conducted by the Israel Mapping Center under the Ministry of Construction and Housing, headed by Minister Haim Katz, who also did not receive credit.

The Altalena was located 20 kilometers off the Israeli coast at a depth of 503 meters. The ship, carrying approximately 930 immigrants including Holocaust survivors and a large cache of weapons, was bombed and sunk in 1948 following a dispute between the newly formed Israel Defense Forces and the Irgun led by Menachem Begin. The confrontation resulted in 19 deaths and remains a sensitive chapter in Israeli history.

Experts and historians expressed skepticism about claims that the ship was found intact, noting that parts of the Altalena were burned or dismantled after it was sunk. The discovery has reignited debates over the historical narrative and how the event should be commemorated. Plans for a press conference to present detailed findings and documentation are forthcoming, though it remains unclear if Netanyahu will participate. Discussions are ongoing about the fate of the wreckage, with options including a floating memorial or a maritime heritage center, as salvaging the entire ship is considered highly complex and unprecedented.

The Altalena saga continues to evoke strong emotions and political tensions, reflecting its enduring significance in Israeli collective memory and identity.