In 1929 tensions grew over the Kotel ( Wailing Wall ) , a narrow alleyway where Jews were banned from using chairs or any furniture ( many of the worshipers were elderly ) . The Mufti claimed it was Muslim property and that the Jews were seeking control of the Temple Mount . This ( and general animosity ) led to the August 1929 Palestine riots . The main victims were the ancient Jewish community at Hebron , which came to an end . The riots led to right-wing Zionists establishing their own militia in 1931 , the Irgun Tzvai Leumi ( National Military Organization , known in Hebrew by its acronym " Etzel " )
1929 Palestine riots
1929 Palestine riots
History of Israel