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2 - From Tactical Command to Political Negotiator

The War of Independence

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 April 2025

Eitan Shamir
Affiliation:
Bar-Ilan University, Israel
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Summary

The chapter traces Dayan’s military career progression during Israel’s War of Independence, which prepared him for future senior command and leadership positions. It highlights his experiences in battles over Degania and his command of the Commando 89th Battalion, including leading the battalion in the conquest of Lod, and finally his command over the Jerusalem front. In Jerusalem, Dayan became involved in peace negotiations with Jordanian Jerusalem front commander Abdullah al-Tal and later with Jordan’s king, showcasing his diplomatic skills. Dayan acknowledged being blessed with the very best teacher – David Ben-Gurion himself. Ben-Gurion was hugely impressed by Dayan’s political and diplomatic finesse, forging even closer relations with him. However, Dayan’s success also made him a target of criticism and jealousy among former Palmach commanders, making him several enemies.

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Chapter
Information
Moshe Dayan
The Making of a Strategist
, pp. 48 - 89
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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