Netanyahu Condemns Civil Conflict Over Altalena Ship Discovery, Ben Gvir Criticizes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on Monday evening following the discovery of the Altalena ship wreck off the coast of Tel Aviv. Netanyahu recalled the tragic 1948 event when the newly formed Israeli government, led by David Ben-Gurion, opened fire on the Altalena, which was carrying vital weapons for the Israel Defense Forces during the War of Independence. He emphasized the call by Irgun commander Menachem Begin to avoid civil war, stating, "Civil war, never. We are brothers, one people, despite political differences." Netanyahu condemned recent political provocations during the commemorative ceremony and urged the formation of a broad unity government to ensure Israel's future and security.

Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, speaking inside the ceremony hall, criticized Netanyahu indirectly, recalling Begin's stance against civil war and highlighting political divisions even within government coalitions. Ben Gvir described the Altalena discovery as a historic closure to a painful chapter in Israeli society, praising the intelligence and operational efforts behind the mission.

The Altalena ship, purchased by the Irgun in 1947, was located at a depth of 503 meters using advanced maritime sensors and mapping technology. The ship had arrived in Israel in June 1948, carrying approximately 930 immigrants, military equipment, and medical supplies. Negotiations between Begin and government representatives failed over the distribution of the weapons, leading to a confrontation when the ship reached the Israeli coast near Kfar Vitkin. After clashes between Irgun fighters and IDF forces, the ship was shelled and burned on the shore of Tel Aviv following orders from Prime Minister Ben-Gurion.

The Altalena affair resulted in the deaths of 16 Irgun fighters and three IDF soldiers, with many more wounded. It marked a defining moment in Israeli history concerning government authority and the avoidance of internal conflict. The remnants of the ship were sunk off the coast of Nabi Rubin over a year later. The incident continues to evoke debate about loyalty and unity in Israeli society.

Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu, who initiated the search expedition, called the discovery a pivotal moment for national memory, aiming to preserve the historical truth and honor the ship's heroes for future generations. Roni Sadeh, head of the maritime mapping division, credited the success to advanced technology and dedicated teams.

The Altalena episode remains a symbol of the challenges Israel faced in uniting diverse armed groups into a single national military and the importance of political cohesion.