Introduction to the Stern Gang

The Stern Gang, also known as Lehi (an acronym for Lohamei Herut Israel, meaning "Fighters for the Freedom of Israel"), was a Zionist paramilitary organization active during the British Mandate of Palestine. Founded in 1940 by Avraham "Yair" Stern, the group was formed after a split from the Irgun, another Jewish underground organization. The Stern Gang's primary goal was to drive the British out of Palestine to establish a Jewish state.

Key Characteristics and Objectives:

Radical Ideology:

The Stern Gang was known for its extreme nationalist views. Unlike other Zionist groups that were willing to negotiate with the British, the Stern Gang considered the British presence in Palestine as the primary obstacle to Jewish sovereignty. They believed that only through armed struggle could a Jewish state be established.

Violence and Assassinations:

The group engaged in a campaign of violence against British officials, institutions, and infrastructure. They were involved in several high-profile assassinations, including the murder of Lord Moyne, the British Minister of State in the Middle East, in 1944, and the assassination of UN mediator Count Folke Bernadotte in 1948.

Collaboration and Controversy:

During World War II, while most Zionist groups supported the Allies against Nazi Germany, the Stern Gang controversially sought alliances with Axis powers, including Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, under the belief that they could help drive the British out of Palestine.

Merger and Dissolution:

After the death of Avraham Stern in 1942, the group continued its activities under different leadership. In 1948, Lehi merged with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) following the establishment of the State of Israel. The organization's members were given amnesty, and many went on to have significant roles in the newly formed Israeli state, including Yitzhak Shamir, who later became Prime Minister of Israel.

Legacy:

The Stern Gang's actions remain controversial. Some view them as freedom fighters who played a crucial role in the creation of Israel, while others see them as terrorists due to their violent tactics. The legacy of the Stern Gang is a complex part of Israel's history, reflecting the intense and often brutal struggle for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the face of British colonial rule.