Anxiety in Yishuv and Founding of Palmach

The Yishuv, the Jewish community in Palestine, faced a significant period of anxiety as the forces of German General Erwin Rommel advanced eastward in North Africa towards the Suez Canal. This military movement raised fears that Palestine could be the next target for conquest. The situation was exacerbated by the Italian air attacks on key cities such as Tel Aviv and Haifa, which further heightened the sense of vulnerability among the Jewish population. In response to these threats, and with the support of the British authorities, the Palmach was founded. The Palmach was a highly trained elite unit of the Haganah, primarily composed of reserve troops. Its establishment marked a pivotal moment in the defense strategy of the Yishuv, as it aimed to prepare for potential military confrontations and safeguard the community against the looming dangers of World War II. The formation of the Palmach not only represented a strategic military response but also symbolized the determination of the Yishuv to protect its interests and ensure its survival during a time of great uncertainty.