Arab general strike (1 apr 1936 anni – 1 ottob 1936 anni)

Descrizione:

In April 1936, a general strike began in Mandatory Palestine, involving many Arabs in labor, transportation, and commercial activities. This strike, which lasted until October 1936, escalated into violence and marked the start of the 1936-1939 Arab revolt. This event reflected a broader pattern of civilian resistance among the Palestinian population, with many opting not to engage directly in combat against the colonial authorities.

The roots of this dissent trace back to earlier periods, including attempts by Arab leaders to initiate anti-Jewish boycotts since the official start of the British Mandate in 1922. The movement gained momentum following the 1935 killing of Sheikh Izz ad-Din al-Qassam by the Palestine Police, which inspired further unrest and calls for a general strike by Mohammad Amin al-Husseini in response to the 1929 Palestine riots. Additionally, regional events like anti-British demonstrations in Egypt in November 1935 and a promise of self-government by the French to Syrians in March 1936 influenced Palestinian actions.

The strike began in Nablus on April 20, 1936, quickly spreading as National Committees formed across towns and major villages. By April 25, the Arab Higher Committee (AHC), chaired by Amin al-Husseini, was established to coordinate efforts and declared the strike would continue until British policy changed significantly. The Committee's demands included stopping Jewish immigration, prohibiting land transfers from Arabs to Jews, and establishing a national government.

The British response involved imposing heavy fines on communities, ordering the demolition of homes in Jaffa under the pretext of urban renewal, and authorizing the construction of a new port in Tel Aviv to undermine the strike-bound Port of Jaffa. Solidarity for the strike extended across the Arab world, with support from Damascus, Baghdad, Cairo, and Beirut.

The strike ended in November 1936, influenced by appeals from regional leaders who trusted British promises to address Arab concerns. This period is crucial in understanding the dynamics and escalation of the Arab-Jewish conflict in pre-state Israel, highlighting the complex interplay of local actions and regional politics.

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