Here’s what Golda Meir—Prime Minister of Israel from 1969 to 1974—thought about Palestine and Palestinians, based on documented sources:
Denial of a Distinct Palestinian Identity
In a widely criticized 1969 interview, Meir declared:
“There was no such thing as Palestinians … There was no such thing in this area as … Palestinians. … They did not exist.”
This statement became perhaps the most famous symbol of Israel’s refusal to recognize a distinct Palestinian identity. Many view this as a defining—and deeply problematic—aspect of her legacy.
Her Clarification and Perspective
Years later, in a 1975 New York Times op-ed, Meir addressed the controversy, clarifying:
Her original quote was misrepresented. What she meant to say was:
“There is no Palestinian people. There are Palestinian refugees.”
She explained this stems from a historical context: prior to World War I, Arab nationalism typically treated the area as part of Greater Syria, not as a separate Palestinian entity.
Contextual Beliefs on Statehood and Security
Meir also held firm views on how Palestinian national aspirations should be addressed:
“Between the Mediterranean and the borders of Iraq… there are now two countries, one Jewish and one Arab, and there is no room for a third. The Palestinians must find the solution… together with that Arab country, Jordan…”
This suggests she believed any Palestinian political future should be linked with Jordan, not as an independent state between Israel and Jordan.