Chronicles

Beir al-Saba, the main city in the District of Beir al-Saba, had a population of approximately 6,460 before it was occupied on October 21, 1948. Before 1948, Beir al-Saba and its vicinity had a predominantly Palestinian population, consisting mainly of Bedouin tribes and settled Palestinians. The Bedouin population practiced semi-nomadic herding and agriculture, while settled Palestinians engaged in various trades and occupations, including agriculture, commerce, and services. Beir al-Saba fell to Israeli forces in October 1948 during Operation Yoav. As a result of the war, many Palestinians fled or were expelled from their homes in Beir al-Saba and surrounding villages. This period saw significant displacement and suffering among the Palestinian population. The events of 1948 led to a substantial reduction in the Palestinian population of Beir al-Saba and the surrounding areas. Many Palestinians became refugees, seeking shelter in neighboring Arab countries or in other parts of Palestine. Following the Nakba, Beir al-Saba was incorporated into the newly established State of Israel. The remaining Palestinian population who were not displaced became citizens of Israel. However, their lives were significantly altered as a result of the war and the changes in political control.