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But the zero-sum conception of the conflict had also another important consequence. It created a mindset that was open to the idea and implementation of transfer and expulsion of the local Palestine Arab population from the Jewish state. As Benny Morris illustrates Ben-Gurion was not the only Jewish leader who considered the option of transfer seriously in order to create a Jewish majority in a future Jewish state in Palestine. In fact, the topic of transfer was discussed intensely among the Zionist leadership in the 1930s and early 1940s.

Ben-Ami argues that the assumed division expressed itself more in Sharett’s intimate reflection in his personal diary than in real life and actual policies. ”4 30 Israeli- Palestinian Rel ations Ben-Gurion’s definition of the situation was based on a number of interrelated beliefs and images about the fundamental nature of the conflict between the Jews and Arabs and the image of the adversary; the utility of military force; the need for the support of a western power and the importance of self-reliance; the control a leader has over historical development and the importance of timing of action to realize political goals.

The goal of that policy was to remove the barriers between Israel and the occupied territories and between the Palestinians in the occupied territories and the surrounding Arab countries. Shortly after the end of the June War Israel allowed the Palestinians in the occupied territories to resume their routine commercial relations with Jordan in both directions. This open borders policy made it possible for the Palestinians in the occupied territories to export their products and import goods to and from the Arab countries as they did before the war.