By: Syeda Anain Fatima
BS-Economics
3rd semester
Arab-Israel conflict
Introduction:
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a longstanding and complex dispute between Israelis and
Palestinians over territory and other key issues. It has deep historical roots and has resulted in ongoing
tensions and challenges in the region. This conflict involves a range of factors, including historical
events, political decisions, and competing national aspirations. The struggle for a fair and lasting
resolution continues to shape the lives of those directly involved and impacts the broader geopolitical
landscape of the Middle East. Below is the history and detailed explanation of the conflict:
Late 1947: UN Partition Plan and Initial Conflict
• In the late 1940s, rising tensions between Jewish and Arab communities in Palestine reached a
critical point. The United Nations proposed a partition plan in late 1947, embodied in UN
Resolution 181. This plan suggested the creation of separate Jewish and Arab states, with an
international administration for Jerusalem.
• While the Jewish leadership, led by figures like David Ben-Gurion, accepted the partition
plan as a step toward establishing a Jewish state, Arab leaders and the Palestinian Arab Higher
Committee rejected it vehemently. They considered the proposed partition a violation of
Palestinian rights and opposed the establishment of a Jewish state.
• The rejection of the UN partition plan led to increased hostilities between Jewish and Arab
communities. Clashes became more frequent, marking the beginning of a complex and
protracted conflict.
May 1948: Declaration of the State of Israel and Arab-Israeli War
• In May 1948 , David Ben-Gurion, as the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the
establishment of the State of Israel. This historic declaration marked the realization of long-
held Zionist aspirations for a Jewish homeland. However, this pivotal moment unfolded
against a backdrop of heightened tensions and the rejection of the UN partition plan by Arab
leaders.
• The Arab states, opposed to the establishment of Israel, responded with military intervention,
sparking the Arab-Israeli War (1948-1949), also known as the War of Independence. The
conflict saw Israel not only defending its newly declared state but also expanding its
territorial control beyond the boundaries designated by the United Nations.
• The war had profound humanitarian consequences, leading to the displacement of hundreds of
thousands of Palestinians. This mass displacement contributed significantly to the Palestinian
refugee crisis, which would persist and shape the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
for decades to come.
• The armistice agreements signed in 1949 marked the end of major hostilities, establishing the
borders of Israel and allocating control of territories. Jordan took control of the West Bank,
while Egypt assumed control of the Gaza Strip. The aftermath of the war set the stage for a
complex and enduring conflict, influencing the geopolitical realities of the Middle East.
1950s-1960s: Refugee Crisis and Fedayeen Attacks
• In the aftermath of the Arab-Israeli War (1948-1949), the region grappled with the
consequences of mass displacement. The influx of Palestinian refugees into neighboring Arab
countries, coupled with the unresolved status of Palestinian territories, heightened tensions
and set the stage for further conflict.
• The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) was
established to address the humanitarian needs of the displaced Palestinian population.
However, the refugee crisis became a persistent issue, contributing to a sense of grievance and
fueling the flames of the ongoing conflict.
• During this period, paramilitary groups known as fedayeen emerged. These Palestinian armed
groups conducted attacks against Israeli civilians and military targets. The fedayeen
operations, characterized by guerrilla tactics, were both a response to the displacement of
Palestinians and a strategy to resist Israeli control.
• The cycle of violence continued as Israel responded with military operations, exacerbating an
already volatile situation. The 1950s and 1960s laid the groundwork for a prolonged struggle,
with unresolved issues from the War of Independence and the refugee crisis contributing to
ongoing hostilities in the region.
June 1967: Six-Day War and Occupation
• In June 1967, tensions between Israel and its Arab neighbors reached a boiling point,
culminating in the Six-Day War. Fearing an imminent attack, Israel launched a preemptive
strike against Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. The conflict resulted in a swift and decisive Israeli
victory, fundamentally altering the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
• Israel gained control of the Sinai Peninsula and Gaza Strip from Egypt, the Golan Heights
from Syria, and the West Bank and East Jerusalem from Jordan. The seizure of these
territories marked the beginning of Israel's military occupation, profoundly impacting the
lives of Palestinians and shaping the course of the conflict for decades.
• The UN Security Council responded with Resolution 242, emphasizing the inadmissibility of
acquiring territory by war and calling for Israeli withdrawal from the occupied territories. The
aftermath of the Six-Day War established a new reality in the region, with Israel now in
control of strategically significant territories, and the Palestinian territories of the West Bank
and Gaza Strip under military occupation.
• This pivotal moment in 1967 set the stage for continued tensions, resistance, and international
efforts to find a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The occupation of the West Bank
and Gaza became a defining feature of the ongoing struggle for self-determination and
statehood for the Palestinian people.
1970s-1980s: Rise of Palestinian Nationalism and Peace Efforts
• The 1970s witnessed the rise of Palestinian nationalism as a significant force in the Israeli-
Palestinian conflict. The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), led by Yasser Arafat,
emerged as a key player advocating for the rights and self-determination of the Palestinian
people.
• The PLO gained international recognition and became a symbol of Palestinian aspirations.
Yasser Arafat addressed the United Nations in 1974, reinforcing the Palestinian quest for
statehood and the recognition of their rights.
• International efforts to address the conflict gained momentum in the late 1970s. The Camp
David Accords in 1978 marked a historic agreement between Israel and Egypt, leading to the
normalization of relations between the two countries. However, the broader Israeli-Palestinian
conflict persisted, with the Palestinian territories remaining under Israeli control.
• In the 1980s, peace efforts continued with the Oslo Accords in the 1990s, representing a
significant development in the quest for a negotiated settlement. The accords established a
framework for a gradual transfer of power to Palestinian self-rule in parts of the West Bank
and Gaza Strip. Despite these diplomatic efforts, the road to lasting peace remained elusive,
and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continued to be a complex and deeply rooted issue in the
region.
2000-2005: Second Intifada and Gaza Disengagement
• The outbreak of the Second Intifada in 2000 marked a period of heightened violence and
unrest. Triggered by a combination of factors, including the failure of peace talks at Camp
David in 2000 and the provocative visit of Ariel Sharon to the Temple Mount, the intifada
involved widespread protests, demonstrations, and acts of violence.
• During the Second Intifada, there were numerous instances of suicide bombings by
Palestinian militants targeting Israeli civilians. In response, Israel initiated military operations
in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, leading to a significant loss of life on both sides.
• Efforts to bring about a resolution continued, with international initiatives such as the
Mitchell Report and the Tenet Plan. However, the violence persisted, creating deep-seated
animosity and further complicating the path to peace.
• In 2005, Israel unilaterally disengaged from the Gaza Strip. The Gaza Disengagement
involved the evacuation of Israeli settlements and the withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces
(IDF) from the territory. The move aimed to alter the dynamics of the conflict, but it also led
to concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the potential for increased tensions
between Israel and the Palestinians.
• The Second Intifada and the Gaza Disengagement represent critical chapters in the modern
history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting the challenges of achieving lasting
peace and the complex interplay of political, social, and historical factors.
2006-Present: Hamas in Gaza, Gaza Blockade, and Ongoing Conflict
• The year 2006 witnessed the electoral victory of Hamas, an Islamist political and militant
group, in Palestinian parliamentary elections. The result led to a division of power between
the West Bank, controlled by the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority, and the Gaza Strip,
governed by Hamas. This political schism intensified internal Palestinian tensions and
complicated efforts to present a unified front in negotiations with Israel.
• The imposition of a blockade on the Gaza Strip, initiated by Israel and later supported by
Egypt, further heightened humanitarian concerns. The blockade, which restricted the
movement of goods and people, contributed to economic hardship, high unemployment, and a
dire humanitarian situation for the population in Gaza.
• Periodic escalations of violence, including conflicts in 2008-2009 (Operation Cast Lead),
2012 (Operation Pillar of Defense), and 2014 (Operation Protective Edge), further strained
relations between Israelis and Palestinians. These military operations resulted in significant
civilian casualties, infrastructure damage, and increased animosity between the parties.
• The situation in Gaza remains a focal point of international concern, with ongoing efforts to
address the humanitarian crisis and find a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The complex interplay of political, security, and humanitarian factors continues to shape the
dynamics of the region, underscoring the persistent challenges in achieving a comprehensive
and sustainable peace.
2023: Recent Escalation and Humanitarian Crisis:
• In early October 2023, a significant escalation occurred, leading to war between Israel and
Hamas(the militant Islamist group that has controlled Gaza since 2006). This marked the most
substantial escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in several decades.
• Hamas fighters fired rockets into Israel and stormed southern Israeli cities and towns across
the border of the Gaza Strip, resulting in a significant loss of life, injuries, and the taking of
hundreds of hostages. The attack took Israel by surprise, prompting a swift and deadly
retaliatory operation.
• One day after the October 7 attack, the Israeli cabinet formally declared war against Hamas,
followed by a directive from the defense minister to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to carry
out a "complete siege" of Gaza. Since then, the two sides have engaged in daily rocket
exchanges, and Israel ordered more than one million Palestinian civilians in northern Gaza to
evacuate ahead of a ground invasion that began on October 28.
• Israeli forces encircled Gaza City, cutting it off from southern Gaza and squeezing Hamas.
The war has resulted in extensive casualties, with Gazan health officials reporting thousands
of Palestinian deaths, including a significant number of children. The territory is also facing
severe shortages of water, fuel, and essential supplies, exacerbated by Israel's rejection of
humanitarian pauses and restrictions on aid.
• The displacement of millions of Palestinians presents a dilemma for Egypt and Jordan, which
have absorbed hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in the past but have resisted accepting
anyone during the current war. The international community grapples with finding a
resolution to the long-standing and complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as civilians in the
region endure dire living conditions and security risks.
Personal Perspective:
Navigating the intricate landscape of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict reveals recent escalations in Gaza,
marked by a distressing experience of human suffering and geopolitical complexities. The unfolding
narratives spotlight vulnerable civilians, particularly women and children, caught in the crossfire of a
conflict deeply rooted in historical complexities. Core issues such as the occupation of Palestinian
territories and the establishment of settlements contribute to the distress experienced by the
Palestinian population. United Nations reports describe harsh living conditions in Gaza, where most
people depend on humanitarian aid. The conflict reflects a struggle between a powerful occupier
(Israel) and a population under occupation (Palestinians), dealing with resource access, freedom of
movement, and fundamental rights. The ongoing power imbalance poses a significant barrier to a fair
resolution.
Global actions, including protests and economic impacts, demonstrate widespread opposition to
Israel. Concerns rise over human rights violations, exemplified by ongoing support for Israeli forces
and the denial of water access to Palestinians. The forced displacement of Palestinians, especially the
youth, signals a burgeoning humanitarian crisis.
Contemplating these distressing realities evokes profound sorrow for the loss of innocent lives and
widespread displacement. Social media vividly portrays the stark departure from humane norms,
prompting reflection on the inherent inhumanity in such actions. Disconcerting scenes of families
uprooted, especially the younger generation, compel us to confront the human impact of the crisis.
This transcends statistics, making it a personal and shared experience of witnessing lives disrupted.
The depth of this humanitarian challenge becomes apparent when considering the long-term
consequences on the displaced. It extends beyond physical displacement to encompass emotional and
psychological tolls on families and communities, emphasizing the urgency for solutions prioritizing
well-being and rights. The images on social media serve as a strong reminder of the severity of these
actions, prompting a reevaluation of the methods used to achieve political goals. Concerns about the
ethical choices made during the conflict underline the need for global discussions on what's right and
wrong, emphasizing the protection of innocent lives and basic human rights.
In addressing the issues between Israel and Palestine, a compassionate and humane approach is
crucial. Nations must engage in discussions prioritizing the well-being of those affected by the
conflict. While complicated, these conversations are essential for protecting human rights, particularly
the freedoms of speech and action for Palestinians. Given these complexities, there's a united call for
an immediate cessation of hostilities, ensuring the protection of Palestinians' basic human rights and
addressing challenges related to property restitution. As the world grapples with these difficulties,
there's a shared commitment to finding a fair and sustainable solution, ensuring justice and stability
for all involved.
REFERENCES:
https://www.cfr.org/global-conflict-tracker/conflict/israeli-palestinian-conflict
https://www.britannica.com/event/Arab-Israeli-wars
https://www.vox.com/2018/11/20/18080002/israel-palestine-conflict-history-overview-map
Woodrow Wilson's 14 Points
Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, outlined his 14 Points before the U.S.
Congress on January 8, 1918, in the midst of World War I. These points were a visionary attempt
to shape the post-war world by establishing principles for international relations, with the ultimate
goal of preventing future conflicts. This analysis will explore each of Wilson's 14 Points, shedding
light on their significance and enduring impact on global diplomacy.
• Open Diplomacy and No Secret Treaties:
Wilson advocated for transparent diplomacy to ensure fair negotiations among nations and
stressed the avoidance of secret treaties to foster trust and transparency.
• Freedom of the Sea:
Proposing unrestricted navigation during peace and war, Wilson aimed to facilitate global trade,
prevent naval blockades, and ensure unimpeded passage for ships, promoting economic activities.
• Removal of Economic Barriers and Fair-Trade Practices:
This point focused on breaking down economic barriers and establishing fair trade practices to
create economic equality and opportunities for all nations, fostering a stable global economy.
• Disarmament:
Wilson urged nations to reduce military forces to prevent an arms race and decrease the likelihood
of future conflicts, promoting peace by curbing militarization.
• Adjustment of Colonial Claims:
Wilson stressed fair resolutions to colonial disputes, considering the interests of both colonial
powers and colonized peoples to address grievances and uphold self-determination.
• Territorial Integrity and Self-Determination:
Emphasizing respect for the territorial integrity of nations and allowing self-determination for
those under foreign rule, this point aimed to prevent border disputes and empower populations to
determine their political status.
• Peaceful Resolution of Border Disputes:
Wilson proposed resolving border conflicts through peaceful means, discouraging aggressive
actions and emphasizing fair and impartial solutions.
• Formation of a League of Nations:
Wilson's most significant point called for establishing the League of Nations, an international
organization promoting collective security and diplomacy to prevent conflicts through
cooperation and arbitration.
• Readjustment of Italian Frontiers:
Addressing territorial disputes involving Italy, this point acknowledged Italy's claims and
advocated for border adjustments that considered the nationalities and interests of affected
regions.
• Redrawing of Borders in Central and Eastern Europe:
Emphasis was placed on redrawing borders in a way that respected the national identities and
aspirations of various ethnic groups in Central and Eastern Europe.
Recognition of Romania, Serbia, Montenegro, and Other Balkan Nations:
Recognizing the independence and territorial integrity of nations in the Balkan region, including
Romania, Serbia, and Montenegro, Wilson aimed to protect their sovereignty and borders.
• Autonomy for Non-Turkish Peoples in the Ottoman Empire:
Recognizing the multi-ethnic nature of the Ottoman Empire, Wilson advocated for autonomy for
non-Turkish peoples within its borders.
• Independence for Poland:
Emphasizing the importance of establishing an independent Poland, this point recognized
Poland's historical significance and national aspirations.
• General Principle of International Relations:
The final point reiterated the overarching principle of creating a global framework guaranteeing
political independence and territorial integrity for all nations, fostering mutual respect and
cooperation.
Woodrow Wilson's 14 Points provided a visionary framework for post-World War I peace,
significantly influencing diplomatic efforts and the establishment of the League of Nations.
Though not all points were fully realized, they underscored Wilson's commitment to fostering
global stability and cooperation.
https://www.britannica.com/event/Fourteen-Points
