The deadliest anti-Jewish pogrom in 20th-century North Africa, killing over 140 Jews and accelerating the mass emigration of Libyan Jews.
Key Facts
- Jews killed
- More than 140
- Jews killed in Tripoli
- 38
- Duration of riots
- November 5–7, 1945
- Muslims arrested
- At least 550
- Governing authority
- British military occupation
- Deaths in Amrus
- 40
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Arab nationalist tensions in Tripolitania were inflamed by uncertainty over the territory's political future—including proposals for Italian or Soviet trusteeship—combined with reports of anti-Jewish disturbances in Egypt and conflict in Palestine. Economic hardship and hooliganism further contributed to a volatile atmosphere directed at the comparatively defenseless Jewish population.
From November 5 to 7, 1945, a pogrom swept through multiple towns in Tripolitania, including Tripoli, Amrus, Zanzur, Tajura, Zawia, and Qusabat. More than 140 Jews were killed and many others injured. British authorities, heavily criticized for responding too slowly, eventually arrested at least 550 Libyan Muslims suspected of involvement.
The riots became a turning point for Libyan Jews, reinforcing fears for their long-term safety in the country. Combined with earlier Axis persecution during World War II, the pogrom became a central catalyst for the mass emigration of Libyan Jews organized by the Jewish Agency between 1949 and 1951.
Political Outcome
Pogrom killed over 140 Jews; British authorities faced criticism for slow response; at least 550 Muslims arrested; event accelerated Jewish emigration from Libya.