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Who: The emergence of the Israel-Palestine conflict

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Who: The emergence of the Israel-Palestine conflict

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The conflict's origins can be traced back to the late 19th century, as Jewish immigration to Palestine increased, leading to tensions with the Arab population and conflicting claims over the land.

Redd, K. (2021, July 12). The complex history of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Abc10.com; abc10. https://www.abc10.com/article/news/community/race-and-culture/need-to-know-the-israel-and-palestine-conflict/103-79ca68a9-31c4-4adb-9b74-99e26b16cebf

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Who: The emergence of the Israel-Palestine conflict

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What: The core concerns and issues at the heart of the conflict

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What: The core concerns and issues at the heart of the conflict

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At the core of the conflict are issues of territory, self-determination, and statehood for both Israelis and Palestinians. Both parties have legitimate historical and cultural claims to the land, leading to deep-seated tensions.

Council on Foreign Relations. (2023, November 13). Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Timeline. CFR Education from the Council on Foreign Relations. https://education.cfr.org/learn/timeline/israeli-palestinian-conflict-timeline

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When: Historical timeline of key events leading to the current situation

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When: Historical timeline of key events leading to the current situation

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Key events include the Balfour Declaration in 1917, the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, subsequent wars and conflicts, peace negotiations such as the Oslo Accords, and ongoing geopolitical developments.

Council on Foreign Relations. (2023, November 13). Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Timeline. CFR Education from the Council on Foreign Relations. https://education.cfr.org/learn/timeline/israeli-palestinian-conflict-timeline

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Where: Geopolitical significance of the region in the conflict

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Where: Geopolitical significance of the region in the conflict

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The region's strategic location at the crossroads of three continents and its religious significance to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam add to the geopolitical complexity of the conflict.

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What Is Palestine?

The word Palestine derives from ancient Greek (Philistia), but ancient Egyptian, Assyrian and Hebrew languages also included similar-sounding words to describe the region or its people. Judaism, Christianity and Islam are all strongly tied to the region, and trace origins to the land over the past few thousand years.

Following the 1918 fall of the Ottoman Empire during World War I, Palestine typically referred to the region between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River. Much of this land is now part of present-day Israel.

Today, the region known as the Palestinian Territories includes the West Bank (a territory that sits between modern-day Israel and Jordan) and the Gaza Strip (bordering Israel and Egypt). These areas have been under Israeli military occupation since 1967. However, control over this region is a complex and evolving situation. There is no international consensus concerning the borders-28 United Nations member countries currently do not recognize Israel at all-and many areas claimed by the Palestinian Territories are also claimed by Israel.

More than 135 United Nations member countries recognize Palestine as an independent state, but Israel and some other countries, including the United States, don't make this distinction.

Palestine's Early Roots

Scholars believe the name "Palestine" is derived from the name of the people-the Philistines-who occupied part of the region in the 12th century B.C.

Over the centuries, Jews, Muslims and Christians and followers of other religions have all claimed special connections to the region. The Hebrew Bible contains narratives of ancient Israelites' presence in the land, including the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, established by King David and his descendants around 1000 B.C. Those kingdoms' rivals included other Canaanite groups like the Philistines, whose territory encompassed the ancient city of Gaza.

The region was later conquered by numerous empires, including the Babylonians, Persians and Romans. It first came under Muslim control when Jerusalem fell to the Rashidun Caliphate in 637, less than five years after the Prophet Muhammed's death. During the Crusades, Christian armies from Western Europe fought both Muslims and local Christian factions for control of their religions' holy sites. Between 1517 and 1917, the Ottoman Empire -whose official religion was Islam-ruled the region.

When World War I ended in 1918, the British took control of Palestine. The League of Nations issued a British mandate for Palestine-a document that gave Britain administrative control over the region, and included provisions for establishing a Jewish national homeland in Palestine-which went into effect in 1923.

The Partition of Palestine

In 1947, after more than two decades of British rule, the United Nations proposed a plan to partition Palestine into two sections: an independent Jewish state and an independent Arab state. The city of Jerusalem, which was claimed as a capital by both Jews and Palestinian Arabs, was to be an international territory with a special status.

Most Jewish leaders accepted the plan, but many Palestinian Arabs-some of whom had been actively fighting British and Jewish interests in the region since the 1920s-vehemently opposed it.

Some Arab leaders argued that they represented the majority of the population and should be granted more territory. They began to form volunteer armies throughout Palestine.

Israel Becomes a State

In May 1948, less than a year after the Partition Plan for Palestine was introduced, Britain withdrew from Palestine and Israel declared itself an independent state, implying a willingness to implement the Partition Plan.

Almost immediately, neighboring Arab armies moved in to prevent the establishment of the Israeli state. The 1948 Arab-Israeli War that ensued involved Israel and five Arab nations-Transjordan (now Jordan), Iraq, Syria, Egypt and Lebanon. By the war's end in July 1949, Israel controlled more than two-thirds of the former British Mandate, while Jordan took control of the West Bank and Egypt took control of the Gaza Strip.

The 1948 conflict opened a new chapter in the struggle between Israeli Jews and Palestinian Arabs, which now became a regional contest involving nation-states and a tangle of diplomatic, political and economic interests.

The PLO Is Born

In 1964, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) was formed for the purpose of establishing a Palestinian Arab state on the land previously administered under the British Mandate, and which the PLO considered to be occupied illegitimately by the State of Israel.

The PLO was originally dedicated to the destruction of the State of Israel as a means of attaining its goal of Palestinian statehood. By the time of the 1993 Oslo Accords, the PLO accepted Israel's right to exist in exchange for formal recognition of the PLO by Israel-a high water mark in Israeli-Palestinian relations. In 1969, the well-known Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat became the Chairman of the PLO and held that title until his death in 2004.

The Six-Day War

The 1967 Six-Day War was triggered during a volatile period of diplomatic friction and skirmishes between Israel and its neighbors. In April 1967, the clashes worsened after Israel and Syria fought a ferocious air and artillery engagement in which six Syrian fighter jets were destroyed.

In the wake of the April air battle, the Soviet Union provided Egypt with intelligence that Israel was moving troops to its northern border with Syria in preparation for a full-scale invasion. The information was inaccurate, but it nevertheless stirred Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser to advance forces into the Sinai Peninsula, where they expelled a United Nations peacekeeping force that had been guarding the border with Israel for over a decade.

Israel Defense Forces then launched a preemptive aerial attack against Egypt on June 5, 1967. Both nations claimed that they were acting in self-defense in the ensuing conflict, which ended on June 10 and also drew in Jordan and Syria, who sided with Egypt. The Six-Day War, as it came to be called, resulted in major land gains for Israel.

By the end of the war, Israel had taken control of the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, the Sinai Peninsula (a desert region situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea) and the Golan Heights (a rocky plateau located between Syria and modern-day Israel).

The outcome of the 1967 Arab-Israeli War would lead to continued tension and armed conflict between Israel and its neighbors over the coming decades.

The 1978 Camp David Accords brought a formal peace between Israel and Egypt that included a return of the Sinai Peninsula and called for further negotiations about Palestinian autonomy in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

The First Intifada and the Oslo Accords

In 1987, the First Intifada broke out, a boiling over of Palestinian anger over ongoing Israeli occupation of Gaza and the West Bank. Palestinian militia groups revolted, and hundreds of people were killed.

A subsequent peace process, known as the Oslo Peace Accords, was initiated in 1993 in a multilateral attempt to end the ongoing violence.

The first Oslo Accord (Oslo I) created a timetable for a Middle East peace process and a plan for an interim Palestinian government in parts of Gaza and the West Bank. The agreement was signed in 1993 and witnessed by Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

Arafat returned to Gaza in 1994 after being exiled for 27 years. He headed up the newly-formed Palestinian Authority.

In 1995, Oslo II laid the groundwork for a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from parts of the West Bank and other areas. It also set a schedule for Palestinian Legislative Council elections.The Oslo Accords ultimately failed to bring Israel and the Palestinians to an agreement over a full-fledged peace plan.

The Second Intifada: Violence Continues

In September 2000, the Second Palestinian Intifada began. One of the triggers for the violence was when Ariel Sharon, a right-wing, Jewish Israeli who would later become Israel's prime minister, visited the al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

The highly contested site is sacred in Judaism as the location of the Hebrew Temples, and in Islam for its association with the Prophet Mohammed. Many Palestinians felt this was an offensive and provocative move, and they protested. Riots, suicide bombings and other attacks subsequently broke out, putting an end to the once-promising peace process.

This period of violence between Palestinians and Israelis lasted nearly five years. Yasser Arafat died in November 2004, and by August of 2005, the Israeli army withdrew from Gaza.

Hamas

In 2006, Hamas, a Sunni Islamist militant group, won the Palestinian legislative elections.

That same year, fighting between Hamas and Fatah, the political group that controlled the PLO, ensued. In 2007, Hamas defeated Fatah in a battle for Gaza.

Hamas has perpetrated terrorist tactics, including carrying out suicide bombings, conducting deadly raids on military and civilian targets and repeatedly calling for the destruction of Israel.

Hamas and Israel have fought each other in several bloody conflicts, including in 2008, 2012 and 2014.

In April 2014, Hamas and Fatah agreed to a deal that would form a unified national Palestinian government, but continuing power struggles between the major parties led to its full dissolution by 2019. That left Fatah dominant in the West Bank and Hamas in full control of the Gaza Strip.

Current State of Palestine

Although Palestinians occupy key areas of land, in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, some Israelis, with their government's blessing, continue to settle in areas that are generally agreed to be under Palestinian control. Many international rights groups consider such settlements illegal, and multiple UN resolutions have been passed backing that position. Borders aren't clearly defined, and persistent conflict continues to be the norm. A substantial proportion of Israelis also oppose the settlements and would prefer to find peaceful ways to resolve their land disputes with the Palestinians.

In May 2017, leaders of Hamas presented a new charter that proposed the formation of a Palestinian state using the 1967 defined borders, with Jerusalem as its capital. However, the group still refused to recognize Israel as a state, and the Israeli government promptly rejected the plan.

In May 2018, tensions increased when the U.S. Embassy relocated from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Perceiving this as a signal of American support for Jerusalem as Israel's capital, Palestinians responded with widespread protests at the Gaza-Israel border. As protests escalated, Israeli forces responded with force, leading to the deaths of dozens of protesters.

In October 2023, Hamas militants launched a coordinated terrorist assault on Israel, kidnapping more than 200 people and killing more than 1,000 Israelis, many of them civilians, leading Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to declare "we are at war." Israel began retaliatory airstrikes in Gaza, leading to thousands of Palestinian deaths, including civilians.

Sources

Palestine. Ancient History Encyclopedia.
Palestine. World History Encyclopedia.
What is Palestine and Palestinians? Israel Science and Technology Directory.
Everything you need to know about Israel-Palestine. Vox.com.
Map: The countries that recognize Palestine as a state. Washington Post.
UN Partition Plan. BBC News.
The Palestinian Liberation Organisation. The History Learning Site.
Timeline: History of a Revolution. Al Jazeera.
Hamas accepts Palestinian state with 1967 borders. Al Jazeera.
Palestine Liberation Organization. Oxford Islamic Studies Online.
Oslo Accords Fast Facts. CNN.
Profile: Hamas Palestinian movement. BBC News.

Fact Check

We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.

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Palestine - History, Religion & Conflicts

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Palestine is a small region of land in the eastern Mediterranean region that includes parts of modern Israel and the Palestinian territories of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. It has played a prominent role in the ancient and modern history of the Middle East and has been marked by frequent political conflict and violent land seizures.

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How: Understanding the dynamics and complexities of the conflict

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How: Understanding the dynamics and complexities of the conflict

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The conflict involves historical grievances, religious factors, security concerns, and competing national aspirations, making it deeply complex and resistant to easy solutions.

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Ethnic conflict: Ethnic conflict, a form of conflict in which the objectives of at least one party are defined in ethnic terms, and the conflict, its antecedents, and possible solutions are perceived along ethnic lines. The conflict is usually not about ethnic differences themselves but over political, economic,

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Why: The significance and implications of the conflict for the parties involved and the broader international community

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Why: The significance and implications of the conflict for the parties involved and the broader international community

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The conflict has far-reaching implications for the people directly involved, regional stability, and international security, making it a matter of global concern.

United Nations. (2023, December 29). Risk of Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Threatening Stability of Wider Region Remains High, Senior UN Political Official Warns Security Council | UN Press. Press.un.org. https://press.un.org/en/2023/sc15549.doc.htm

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Overview of America’s historical and current role in the conflict

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Overview of America’s historical and current role in the conflict

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The U.S. has been a key ally and supporter of Israel, providing military and economic aid. It has also played a crucial role in peace efforts and negotiations, albeit with varying degrees of success.

The United States has historically played a significant role in the Israel-Palestine conflict, providing extensive military and economic aid to Israel. The U.S. has also been involved in brokering peace talks and attempting to mediate the conflict. The country's involvement stems from its strategic alliances, geopolitical interests, and historical commitments to the region.

In recent years, the U.S. has been actively engaged in promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict. It has advocated for a two-state solution that recognizes the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. The U.S. government has also supported diplomatic initiatives and participated in peace negotiations, aiming to facilitate meaningful dialogue and negotiation between the parties involved.

However, America's role in the conflict has been a subject of debate, with differing opinions on the extent of its support for Israel and its approach to promoting a balanced and just resolution. The U.S. continues to navigate complex challenges in the region while striving to uphold its principles of diplomacy, human rights, and stability.

Robinson, K. (2021, May 27). What Is U.S. Policy on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict? Council on Foreign Relations. https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/what-us-policy-israeli-palestinian-conflict

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Opinion on the ideal role the United States should play in promoting peace

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Opinion on the ideal role the United States should play in promoting peace

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I believe that America's role in the Israel-Palestine conflict should prioritize diplomacy, support for a balanced approach, and a commitment to promoting a just and lasting peace. The United States should actively engage in efforts to facilitate meaningful dialogue and negotiation between the parties, advocating for a two-state solution that respects the rights and security of both Israelis and Palestinians.

Furthermore, the U.S. should uphold international law, human rights, and the principles of fairness and equity in its approach to the conflict. Supporting initiatives that address the core concerns of both parties and working towards a sustainable and mutually acceptable resolution is essential for America's role in promoting peace and stability in the region.

Overall, the United States should strive to be a constructive and impartial facilitator in the Israel-Palestine conflict, advocating for a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can coexist in peace and security within recognized and secure borders.

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Recent alerts and events related to the conflict

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Recent alerts and events related to the conflict

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Ongoing violence, diplomatic tensions, and peace initiatives in the region have implications for U.S. involvement and foreign policy. Recent events include the U.S. government's response to escalating violence and its involvement in promoting de-escalation efforts.

The U.S. government has responded to escalating violence in the Israel-Palestine conflict by expressing concerns over the situation and calling for de-escalation. This involvement includes diplomatic efforts to engage with both Israeli and Palestinian authorities, urging both parties to work towards a ceasefire and a cessation of hostilities. The U.S. has emphasized the need for all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and to take steps to prevent further violence and bloodshed.

In line with my beliefs for America's role in the conflict, the U.S. should continue to prioritize diplomatic efforts and peacebuilding by actively engaging with all relevant stakeholders. It is imperative for the U.S. to support initiatives that promote dialogue, understanding, and respect for the rights and security of both Israelis and Palestinians. This includes promoting conditions for sustainable peace, addressing the root causes of the conflict, and working towards a just and lasting resolution that respects the aspirations of both parties. U.S. involvement should align with the principles of international law, human rights, and the pursuit of a two-state solution, with the ultimate goal of fostering peace and stability in the region.

US department of state. (2022, April 1). United States Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability. United States Department of State. https://www.state.gov/united-states-strategy-to-prevent-conflict-and-promote-stability/

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Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations

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United States Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability - United States Department of State

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Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION SECTION 1: STRATEGIC CHALLENGE SECTION 2: STRATEGIC APPROACH and GOALS Goals and Objectives of the Strategy Prevention – Anticipate and Prevent Violent Conflict and Large-Scale Violence Stabilization – Achieve Locally-Driven Political Solu…

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Implications of the conflict on international relations and geopolitical stability

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Implications of the conflict on international relations and geopolitical stability

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The conflict has direct implications for regional stability and international relations, which in turn shape global geopolitics and security. Resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict is essential for fostering stability and peace in the Middle East and beyond.

Center for Preventative Action. (2024, May 10). Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. Global Conflict Tracker; Council on Foreign Relations. https://www.cfr.org/global-conflict-tracker/conflict/israeli-palestinian-conflict

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Israeli-Palestinian Conflict | Global Conflict Tracker

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Learn about the world’s top hotspots with this interactive Global Conflict Tracker from the Center for Preventive Action at the Council on Foreign Relations.

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 Future predictions and potential outcomes of the conflict

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 Future predictions and potential outcomes of the conflict

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The future of the Israel-Palestine conflict remains uncertain, with multiple potential outcomes. However, it is evident that sustainable peace and stability in the region will require concerted efforts from the international community, including the United States, to address the core issues and work towards a just and lasting resolution. It is imperative for the U.S. to continue advocating for diplomacy, human rights, and the rule of law in addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict and promoting a future of peace and prosperity for all parties involved.

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Stance on the United States’ involvement in the conflict resolution efforts

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Stance on the United States’ involvement in the conflict resolution efforts

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The U.S. should prioritize diplomacy, respect for international law, and support for a two-state solution, aiming at a sustainable peace agreement that recognizes the rights and security of both Israel and Palestine.

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Importance of awareness of the conflict for American citizens

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Importance of awareness of the conflict for American citizens

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American citizens should be aware of the Israel-Palestine conflict due to its significant impact on international relations, global stability, and U.S. foreign policy. The conflict has been a longstanding source of tension in the Middle East and has implications for regional security and geopolitical dynamics. Moreover, the U.S. provides substantial support to Israel, and American taxpayers' dollars are directly linked to the ongoing situation in the region.

Understanding the complexities and historical context of the conflict is crucial for American citizens to make informed decisions and contribute to meaningful discussions on U.S. foreign policy. Additionally, awareness of the conflict fosters a deeper understanding of the broader geopolitical implications for the region and the world. By staying informed, American citizens can engage in constructive dialogue, support diplomatic initiatives, and contribute to efforts aimed at achieving a just and sustainable resolution to the conflict.