Palestine Command was a British military command in Mandatory Palestine and the Emirate of Transjordan.
Palestine Command British Forces in Palestine and Trans-jordan | |
---|---|
Active | 1922–1948 |
Country | United Kingdom |
Branch | British Army |
Type | Command |
Garrison/HQ | Jerusalem |
Commanders | |
Last commander | Gordon MacMillan |
Notable commanders | Sir Archibald Wavell |
The command was formed in February 1922 with the objective of controlling all British forces in Mandatory Palestine.[1] In 1930, following an outbreak in hostilities between the Jewish and Arab populations, 2nd Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment and the 1st Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment were deployed to Palestine.[1] In September 1936, following an escalation in violence, Lieutenant-General Sir John Dill was despatched there.[1] After the Second World War, with the immigration of Jews, tensions increased further and 1st Infantry Division arrived in Palestine.[1] In May 1948 the United Kingdom's mandate ended and British troops withdrew the following month.[1]
Commanders were as follows:[2]