The Arab-Zionist Position on the British White Papers (1922–1939): A Historical Study

Abstract

  This research presents an analytical study of the positions held by both the Arabs and the Zionist movement regarding the series of White Papers issued by the  British government during its mandate over Palestine between 1922 and 1939. These documents represented British attempts to recalibrate its policy in Palestine in light of rising tensions between Arabs and Jews, as well as increasing local and international pressure resulting from Jewish immigration and Arab protests.

The study begins by outlining the historical background of the British Mandate, then focuses on the content of the three main White Papers (1922, 1930, and 1939), offering a detailed analysis of their political implications and practical effects on the ground. It highlights the Arab responses, which ranged from rejection to reservation, alongside the Zionist positions, which viewed these documents as direct threats to the Zionist project.

Furthermore, the research explores how Britain employed these White Papers as political tools to postpone decisive action and avoid overt bias. The study concludes that the White Papers failed to establish a just settlement and instead deepened the divide between the two parties. They also reflected the confusion in British policy, caught between its conflicting commitments to both Arabs and Zionists. Ultimately, the research demonstrates that this period laid the groundwork for many aspects of the ongoing conflict today