The Myth: Jews lived in harmony and equality in Arab and Muslim lands before Israel’s creation, and their mass exodus was solely due to Israel’s establishment rather than persecution.

The Facts: While there were periods of relative tolerance, Jews in Arab and Muslim lands historically lived as “dhimmis,” protected but second-class citizens subject to special taxes, restrictions on religious practice, limitations on property ownership, and vulnerable to periodic violence. Following Israel’s establishment, approximately 850,000 Jews were forced to flee from Arab countries where many had lived for over 2,000 years, often leaving with only the clothes on their backs after their assets were confiscated. These Jewish refugees received no international recognition or compensation, unlike Palestinian refugees who continue to receive unique multi-generational refugee status and international support.