What are Israel and Palestine fighting for?

The Israel-Palestine conflict is a long-standing and complex dispute that has garnered international attention for decades. Rooted in historical, political, and religious factors, this conflict has led to numerous wars, negotiations, and ongoing tensions.

Below are some key facts about the Israel-Palestine conflict to help you better understand this issue:

1. Historical Background: The conflict traces its origins back to the late 19th century when Jewish and Arab nationalist movements emerged in the region, both seeking self-determination. Tensions escalated during the British Mandate period (1920-1948), leading to violence and displacement.

2. 1947 UN Partition Plan: In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan to divide Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city. While Jewish leaders accepted the plan, Arab leaders rejected it, leading to regional unrest.

3. Creation of Israel (1948): The State of Israel was officially established on May 14, 1948. Arab states, infuriated by the creation of Israel, launched a military intervention, resulting in the First Arab-Israeli War.

4. Six-Day War (1967): In June 1967, Israel engaged in the Six-Day War with neighboring Arab states. Israel emerged victorious, gaining control over the West Bank, Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights, significantly altering the geopolitical landscape.

5. Oslo Accords (1993): In an attempt to resolve the conflict, secret negotiations between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) led to the Oslo Accords. The agreement aimed to establish a framework for peace, including the creation of the Palestinian Authority.

6. Gaza Disengagement (2005): In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Gaza Strip, dismantling settlements and evacuating its citizens. However, the situation in Gaza remained tense, leading to conflicts between Israel and Palestinian militant groups.

7. Ongoing Settlements and Disputes: One of the major sticking points in the conflict is the construction of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which is a constant source of tension between Israelis and Palestinians. The status of Jerusalem also remains a contentious issue, with both parties claiming it as their capital.

8. Humanitarian Concerns: The conflict has led to widespread humanitarian issues, including the displacement of Palestinians, economic hardships, and limited access to essential resources. Both sides have faced criticism for human rights violations, drawing international condemnation.

9. International Efforts for Peace: Numerous international efforts, including the Camp David Accords, the Roadmap for Peace, and various peace talks, have been made to mediate the conflict. However, a lasting resolution has remained elusive, leading to ongoing strife.

10. Complete on Gaza in 2023: Clashes broke out almost immediately between Jews and Arabs in Palestine in October. Israel and the Palestinian groups in Gaza continued firing rockets at each other’s territories as over 1,100 including children have been killed in the violent war that is raging for the third day.

While the Israel-Palestine conflict is deeply entrenched and multifaceted, it is crucial to remain informed about its historical context and the efforts made towards a peaceful resolution.