Correction: ‘With God On Our Side’ — David Ben Gurion Quote
MEDIA ADVISORY, Nov. 4, 2011
At the 16:55 minute mark of “With God On Our Side” there is a quote from David Ben Gurion, which states, “The Arabs will have to go, but one needs an opportune moment to make it happen, such as war.” The source for this quote we used was from: “The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine” Ilan Pappe, page 23 (Ben Gurion’s Diary).
It has come to the attention of the producers of “With God On Our Side” that this quote cannot be found in the original sources of Ben Gurion’s diary and therefore cannot be verified as authentic. While references to this quote exist, we could not find it in its original form. In an effort to be transparent and accurate, the producers have decided to take the extra step of removing it from future printings of “With God On Our Side.” We apologize for this change.
Porter Speakman, Jr. Rooftop Productions
UPDATE: March 28, 2012
On March 27, 2012 The Journal of Palestine Studies (JPS) issued a response to CAMERA on the Ben Gurion quote in question. While that exact quote does not appear in the original text, JPS has provided the first offical full length English translation of the letter from David Ben Gurion to his son Amos dated: 5 October 1937.
In the letter, the intent of removing Arabs living in Palestine to make way for a “Jewish State” is made clear. At one point Ben Gurion tells his son: “we must expel Arabs and take their place”.
However, the producers of “With God On Our Side” have decided to keep the quote “The Arabs will have to go, but one needs an opportune moment to make it happen, such as war.” out of the film as it is not an actual quote in the letter.
We commend the Journal of Palestine Studies for having the full letter translated which helps to bring historical context and facts to the conversation of the ethnic displacement of Palestinians.
Resources:
PDF: Journal of Palestine Studies Responds to CAMERA on the Ben Gurion Quote
PDF: English Translation of the letter from David Ben Gurion to his son Amos, 5 October 1937
UPDATE: April 9, 2012
CAMERA has responded to the Journal of Palestine Studies. Their response can be found online here.