ABSTRACT
On May 14, as the regular Arab armies were amassing to enter the new state, the General Assembly passed a resolution providing for a UN mediator in Palestine. The mediator, Count Folke Bernadotte, was to work with the Truce Commission established by the Security Council to try to promote a peaceful settlement. The Altalena was a ship purchased abroad by the Irgun Zvai Leumi, loaded with over 800 immigrants, fighters, and a large quantity of arms and explosives bound for the new state. However, according to the agreement with the new government, the Irgun was to cease all independent arms acquisitions and activities. There is disagreement among historians on almost every aspect of the first Arab–Israeli war. Claims and counterclaims have been made by both sides, so that it is virtually impossible to reach conclusions that are not disputed. The Arabs' major difficulties were logistical and organizational.
