Jewish fighting capabilities were well known in ancient times, as documented by Colonel Richard Meinertzhagen, the Chief Political/Intelligence Officer of the British Mandate in Palestine, who studied ancient Jewish wars, including the 132-135AD rebellion against the Roman Empire. In 1923, he stated (Middle East Diary 1917-1956): "When a Jewish state will be established, Britain shall benefit from air force, naval and land bases... as well as Jewish fighting capabilities... which will secure its long-term regional interests."