Final answer:
The British government announced their support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine during World War I. T.E. Lawrence, who was working with the Arab rebels, was not aware of this decision. The announcement created tensions between Jewish settlers and Arab inhabitants, resulting in ongoing conflict in the region.
Step-by-step explanation:
During World War I, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, which stated their support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. This declaration was made without the knowledge of T.E. Lawrence, who was acting as a British colonial agnate and encouraging the Arab rebels.
The British government's support for a Jewish homeland caused tensions between Jewish settlers and Arab inhabitants, leading to ongoing conflict in the region.