The ongoing conflict, between Israel and Palestine is an long standing geopolitical challenge that has endured for more, than a hundred years. In this breakdown we outline five aspects to shed light on the origins, present situation and possible solutions of this conflict.
1. Historical Background
The origins of the Israel Palestine dispute can be traced back, to the 1800s and early 1900s when nationalist movements emerged among Arab populations. The Balfour Declaration in 1917 pledged to establish a homeland in Palestine while it was under Ottoman rule. After World War I Britain received a mandate over Palestine from the League of Nations resulting in a rise in immigration. This influx sparked tensions between the Arab communities leading to conflicts, over territory and political power.
2. The Creation of Israel
In 1947 the United Nations put forward a proposal to divide Palestine into Arab states designating Jerusalem as an international city. While Jewish leaders agreed to the plan it faced rejection, from nations. The year Israel proclaimed its independence sparking the Arab Israeli War. This conflict saw Israel gain control of territory beyond the boundaries initially suggested by the UN. Led to the displacement of around 700,000 Palestinians—a tragic event known to Palestinians as the Nakba meaning “catastrophe.”
3. Territorial Disputes and Settlements
Territorial conflicts continue to be a concern, in the dispute. After the Six Day War in 1967 Israel took control of the West Bank, Gaza Strip East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights. These areas are currently recognized as occupied territories by the community. The growth of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem is seen as violating laws leading to heightened tensions as Palestinians perceive them as infringements, on their prospective nation.
4. Gaza Strip and the Blockade
The Gaza Strip, under the control of Hamas since 2007 has been a hotspot for conflict. Israel and Egypt enforce restrictions on Gaza claiming security reasons linked to Hamass activities. These restrictions have caused hardships for the people in Gaza leading to criticism and ongoing clashes between Israel and militant groups, in Gaza resulting in casualties and widespread destruction.
5. Prospects for Peace
Attempts to address the conflict through peace negotiations like the Oslo Accords of the 1990s have not been successful, in finding enduring resolutions. Key matters at hand encompass the Jerusalem status, establishment of a state security worries, refugee entitlements and reciprocal acknowledgment. The concept of a two state resolution envisioning a nation, alongside Israel continues to garner broad international backing. However practical political. Longstanding distrust present considerable obstacles.