Israel negev bedouin during the 1948 war: Departure and return

Abstract

While much has been written on various aspects of the 1948 War, the story of the Negev Bedouins’ role and their relations with the newly formed Jewish state has drawn little attention. This article focuses on a short but important episode in the establishment of Israeli–Bedouin relations by examining the Negev Bedouin involvement in the 1948 War, predominantly on the side of the Arab armies, and the circumstances of their departure. Its findings contradict previous academic narratives and baseless statements regarding Bedouin–Israeli relations, including unfulfilled promises by the Israeli authorities to recognize Bedouin claims to land rights.