UNSCOP

What is UNSCOP?

The United Nations set up a Special Committee on Palestine. It's aim was to find possible solutions to the problems in Palestine.

When was UNSCOP set up?

May 1947.

Who was in the UNSCOP?

Delegates from eleven different countries from each continent.

How did UNSCOP work?

They gathered evidence by meeting British representations, Jewish leaders and Jewish refugees. They tried to speak to the Arabs for their views but they boycotted the process, believing it to be pro-Zionist and without the right to be there at all. It did visit neighbouring countries and met with a former Mayor of Jerusalem.

What did UNSCOP recommend?

The UNSCOP report recommended a partition of Palestine into separate Arab and Jewish states. They would share communication and transport services. They would use the same currency. It also recommended that Bethlehem and Jerusalem be under international control.

When did UNSCOP make it's report?

September 1947.

How did the Arabs react to UNSCOP's recommendations?

The Arabs rejected the plan. They argued that the UN had no right to take their land and give it away. They also believed the plan was not fair when looking at population percentage and land given to the Arabs, who made up over two thirds of the population yet they got under half the land.

How did the British react to UNSCOP's recommendations?

The British thought it would lead to war as it was unfair for the Arabs. They made a quick withdrawal from Palestine.

How did the Jewish react to UNSCOP's recommendations?

Mostly they were pleased as they got their state. However they still wanted Jerusalem to be their capital and not in international hands, especially as they would have to travel through Arab land to get there if they wanted to visit.