This article examines the 1982 Sabra and Shatila massacre, focusing on the roles of Israel and the United States. At least 800 Palestinian civilians, mostly women, children, and elderly men, were killed by Lebanese Christian militias over three days. An Israeli investigative commission found Israeli leaders indirectly responsible, with Ariel Sharon bearing personal responsibility for failing to prevent the killings.
Newly declassified documents reveal that Israel misled American diplomats about the situation, claiming thousands of terrorists were present in the camps. The US, which had pledged to protect the Palestinian civilians, failed to exert diplomatic pressure to stop the massacre despite the opportunity. This failure occurred despite a prior cease-fire agreement and the departure of US Marines from the region.
Israel's invasion of Lebanon aimed to eliminate the PLO and create a Christian-ruled ally. Heavy bombardments by Israeli forces resulted in significant civilian casualties, straining relations with the US. Even President Reagan expressed concern over the bombings. After the PLO's withdrawal, negotiated with US involvement, and the subsequent assassination of Lebanese President Bashir Gemayel, Israel violated the ceasefire agreement.
Israel occupied West Beirut under the pretext of preventing attacks on Palestinian civilians. Prime Minister Begin assured the American envoy of their intention to maintain peace, fearing otherwise potential pogroms. However, the events leading up to and including the massacre cast doubt on this assertion, highlighting a failure in responsibility.