The Stern Gang, officially known as Lehi (Lohamei Herut Israel – Fighters for the Freedom of Israel), remains one of the most controversial and debated groups in the history of Zionism and the formation of the State of Israel.
Formed in 1940 by Avraham Stern, a radical Zionist, the group distinguished itself from other Jewish paramilitary organizations through its uncompromising ideology and willingness to employ extreme tactics, including terrorism, to achieve its goals.
This article delves into the history, ideology, actions, and lasting legacy of the Stern Gang, exploring the complexities and controversies surrounding this pivotal chapter in Israeli history.
The Split from the Irgun and the Formation of Lehi
The Stern Gang emerged from a split within the Irgun (Irgun Tzvai Leumi – National Military Organization), another Zionist paramilitary group. Both organizations advocated for armed resistance against British rule in Mandatory Palestine, but they differed in their strategic approaches.
The Irgun, under the leadership of Menachem Begin, favored targeting British military and administrative installations. Stern, however, believed that any means, including attacks on civilians and collaboration with Axis powers, were justified to achieve immediate Jewish statehood.
This fundamental disagreement led Stern to break away from the Irgun in 1940, forming his own organization, initially known as the Irgun Zvai Leumi B’Yisrael (National Military Organization in Israel), later renamed Lehi.
Stern’s uncompromising stance and his belief in a “Greater Israel” encompassing all of Mandatory Palestine and beyond set Lehi apart from the mainstream Zionist movement.
Ideology and Objectives: Radical Zionism and Total War
Lehi’s ideology was rooted in a radical form of Revisionist Zionism, advocating for the establishment of a Jewish state through any means necessary. Stern believed that political negotiations with the British were futile and that only armed struggle could achieve Jewish independence. He embraced a philosophy of “total war,” arguing that all resources should be mobilized for the liberation of the land, even if it meant civilian casualties.
A particularly controversial aspect of Lehi’s ideology was its willingness to explore alliances with Axis powers during World War II. Stern believed that any power opposed to British rule could be a potential ally, regardless of their ideology.
This led to attempts to contact Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, seeking their support for Jewish statehood in exchange for cooperation against the British. These attempts were ultimately unsuccessful and remain a highly contentious point in Lehi’s history.
Operations and Tactics: Assassinations and Attacks
Lehi carried out numerous attacks against British targets in Mandatory Palestine, employing tactics such as bombings, assassinations, and armed raids. Some of the most notable operations include:
The assassination of Lord Moyne: In 1944, Lehi members assassinated Lord Moyne, the British Minister Resident in the Middle East, in Cairo. This act drew international condemnation and further alienated Lehi from the mainstream Zionist movement.
The Deir Yassin massacre: In 1948, during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Lehi, along with the Irgun, participated in the Deir Yassin massacre, in which over 100 Palestinian villagers, including women and children, were killed. This event remains highly controversial and is considered a pivotal moment in the Palestinian exodus.
Attacks on British police and military installations: Lehi carried out numerous attacks on British police stations, military bases, and government offices throughout Mandatory Palestine.
Lehi’s tactics, particularly the targeting of civilians and the assassination of Lord Moyne, were widely condemned and contributed to their image as a terrorist organization.
The Assassination of Avraham Stern and Lehi’s Underground Activities
In 1942, Avraham Stern was discovered in a Tel Aviv apartment by British police and subsequently shot dead. His death further radicalized Lehi, which continued its underground activities under new leadership. Despite facing intense pressure from British authorities and other Jewish organizations, Lehi persisted in its armed struggle until the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.
Lehi and the Establishment of Israel
Following the declaration of Israeli independence, Lehi was formally disbanded and its members were granted amnesty. Many former Lehi members went on to play prominent roles in Israeli politics, military, and society. Yitzhak Shamir, a future Prime Minister of Israel, was a prominent figure in Lehi’s leadership.
The Legacy and Controversy of the Stern Gang
The Stern Gang’s legacy remains highly contested. Some view them as heroic freedom fighters who played a crucial role in achieving Israeli independence, while others condemn them as terrorists whose actions were morally reprehensible. Their willingness to use violence against civilians, their attempts to collaborate with Axis powers, and their role in events like the Deir Yassin massacre continue to fuel debate and controversy.
The historiography of Lehi is complex and reflects the ongoing debates about the nature of Zionism, the use of violence in achieving political goals, and the legacy of the pre-state period in Israeli history. While some historians emphasize Lehi’s contribution to Israeli independence, others focus on their extremist ideology and violent tactics.
FAQs
What was the Stern Gang?
The Stern Gang, also known as Lehi (Lohamei Herut Israel, “Fighters for the Freedom of Israel”), was a Zionist paramilitary organization founded in Mandatory Palestine in 1940. It was considered a terrorist group by the British authorities.
Why was the Stern Gang formed?
It was formed due to disagreements within the Irgun (another Zionist paramilitary group) regarding strategy against the British Mandate. Avraham Stern, the founder, believed in more aggressive tactics, including attacks on British personnel, to achieve an independent Jewish state.
What were the Stern Gang’s main activities?
The Stern Gang carried out various attacks against British targets in Palestine, including assassinations, bombings, and raids on British installations. They also targeted Arabs and engaged in bank robberies to fund their operations.
What was the Stern Gang’s ideology?
Their ideology was a radical form of Revisionist Zionism, advocating for a Jewish state encompassing the entire territory of Mandatory Palestine. They initially sought alliances with Axis powers during World War II, hoping to expel the British.
What happened to the Stern Gang after the establishment of Israel?
The Stern Gang was officially disbanded in 1948 after the creation of the State of Israel. Its members were granted amnesty, and many were integrated into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
How is the Stern Gang viewed today?
The Stern Gang remains a controversial topic. Some view them as freedom fighters who contributed to Israel’s independence, while others condemn their violent methods and terrorist actions. Their legacy continues to be debated in Israeli society.
The Bottom Line
The Stern Gang, or Lehi, represents a complex and controversial chapter in Zionist history. Their radical ideology, willingness to employ extreme tactics, and attempts to collaborate with Axis powers set them apart from other Jewish paramilitary organizations. While their role in the establishment of Israel cannot be denied, their actions remain highly debated and continue to raise ethical and historical questions.
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