Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Untold Lines About Israel and Palestine Conflict
Untold Lines About Israel and Palestine Conflict
1
All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced,
distributed, or transmitted in any form
or by any means, including
photocopying, recording, or other
electronic or mechanical methods,
without the prior written permission of
the publisher, except in the case of brief
quotations embodied in critical reviews
and certain other noncommercial uses
permitted by copyright law.
2
Table Of Contents
INTRODUCTION.
Chapter 1: Historical Roots
The Birth of Modern Israel
Palestinian Nationalism and Identity
Chapter 2: Contested Territories
Borders, Territories, and Settlements.
Gaza and the West Bank: Complex Realities.
Chapter 3: Politics and Governance.
Palestinian Authority and Governance
Structures.
International Mediation Efforts
Chapter 4: The Search for Solutions.
Historical Attempts at Peace.
Prospects for a Sustainable Resolution
3
INTRODUCTION.
4
Although Israel emerged as the victor in 1949,
the consequences of the war were significant,
leading to the displacement of approximately
750,000 Palestinians. The aftermath also saw the
territory being partitioned into three distinct
regions: the State of Israel itself, the West Bank
along the Jordan River, and the Gaza Strip. In
the years that followed, tensions in the region
grew, particularly brewing friction between
Israel and its neighboring countries of Egypt,
Jordan, and Syria.
5
This marked the beginning of the Six-Day War,
during which Israel secured territorial control
over the Sinai Peninsula and Gaza Strip from
Egypt, the West Bank and East Jerusalem from
Jordan, and the Golan Heights from Syria. Fast
forward six years, and another major conflict
broke out in the region known as the Yom
Kippur War or the October War. This time, it
was Egypt and Syria that jointly launched a
surprise attack on Israel, aiming to reclaim the
territories they had lost in the previous war.
6
Representatives from Egypt and Israel came
together to sign the historic Camp David
Accords, a crucial peace treaty that ultimately
brought an end to the thirty-year-long conflict
between the two nations. This agreement marked
a monumental turning point in the region's
history, signaling the possibility of peaceful
coexistence and fostering diplomatic relations
between Egypt and Israel.
7
facilitated negotiations between the two parties,
ultimately establishing a framework for the
Palestinians to govern themselves in the West
Bank and Gaza. Furthermore, these accords
allowed for mutual recognition between the
newly formed Palestinian Authority and Israel's
government. Continuing the progress of the
Oslo Accords, the Oslo II Agreement emerged in
1995, building upon the initial agreement.
8
advantage of this unresolved matter, hundreds of
thousands of Palestinians living in the West
Bank and Gaza Strip launched a massive
uprising against the Israeli government, known
as the first intifada, in 1987.
9
commitment to fully withdraw from six cities
and 450 towns located in the West Bank.
This provision demonstrated a tangible step
towards granting the Palestinians more control
over their own territories and emphasized the
commitment of both parties to pursuing a
sustainable and just solution to the ongoing
conflict. In the year 2000, a series of events
ignited the second intifada, a five-year-long
uprising by Palestinians. One of the contributing
factors was the deep-seated Palestinian
grievances arising from Israel's control over the
West Bank.
10
the third holiest site in Islam. The visit by
Sharon in September of that year was perceived
by Palestinians as provocative, further escalating
tensions between the two sides.
11
These entities raised concerns about the legality
and the potential negative impact of the wall on
the daily lives of Palestinians. Despite these
objections, the Israeli government pushed
forward with the construction of the barrier,
emphasizing the need for heightened security
measures to protect its citizens. While the barrier
did succeed in reducing the number of attacks, it
also imposed severe restrictions on the
movement and daily lives of Palestinians living
in the West Bank.
12
security concerns. However, it also led to further
polarization between Israelis and Palestinians,
adding another layer of complexity to the
already contentious Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In 2013, the United States made an effort to
reestablish the peace process that aimed to bring
together the Israeli government and the
Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.
However, the peace negotiations faced obstacles
when Fatah, the ruling party of the Palestinian
Authority, joined forces with their rival faction,
Hamas, in 2014. This unexpected collaboration
between Fatah and Hamas disrupted the peace
talks that were underway.
13
leading to a full-scale military confrontation
between the Israeli military and Hamas.
14
progress in achieving their aspirations for
statehood. Fast forward to the months of March
and May of 2018.
15
According to the United Nations, a staggering
183 demonstrators lost their lives, and over
6,000 sustained injuries inflicted by live
ammunition. The high number of fatalities and
injuries only added fuel to the already volatile
situation, further exacerbating tensions between
Israelis and Palestinians. The profound impact of
these events on the region's stability and
prospects for peace cannot be overstated, as they
represent yet another chapter in the
long-standing and complex Israeli-Palestinian
conflict.
16
The intensity and rapidity of these
counterattacks made this flare-up particularly
significant.
17
Jerusalem. This decision was a notable departure
from the established U.S. policy, which had
previously endorsed a more neutral stance on the
dispute between Israel and Palestine. The
relocation of the embassy to Jerusalem sparked
widespread controversy and drew criticism from
various stakeholders in the international
community. It represented a symbolic shift in the
U.S.'s position and demonstrated a clear
alignment with Israel, further complicating the
already intricate dynamics of the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
18
These agreements, known as the Abraham
Accords, were reached after a series of extensive
diplomatic efforts by the United States, which
had previously hosted ministerial talks in
Warsaw, Poland, concerning the future of peace
in the Middle East. The event took place more
than eighteen months prior to the accords being
signed.
19
An Israeli court made a ruling in October 2020
regarding the eviction of numerous Palestinian
families residing in Sheikh Jarrah, a
neighborhood located in East Jerusalem. The
court decreed that these families were to be
evicted by May 2021, and their land would be
transferred to Jewish families. As a response to
this decision, several Palestinian families from
Sheikh Jarrah filed an appeal to challenge the
ruling in February 2021.
20
As the month of May began, the protests
escalated after a court ruling supported the
evictions. In response, Israeli police employed
force against the demonstrators. On May 7th,
after weeks of daily protests and increasing
tensions between protesters, Israeli settlers, and
the police during the holy month of Ramadan,
violence erupted at the al-Aqsa Mosque complex
in Jerusalem. This confrontation witnessed the
use of stun grenades, rubber bullets, and water
cannons by the Israeli police, resulting in
hundreds of Palestinians sustaining injuries.
21
police resorted to both lethal and nonlethal force.
In response to these actions, Hamas, a militant
group in control of Gaza, along with other
Palestinian militant factions, launched a barrage
of hundreds of rockets into Israel territory.
In an attempt to retaliate, Israel initiated artillery
assaults and carried out airstrikes in Gaza,
resulting in the deaths of more than twenty
Palestinians. While Israel claimed that their
targets were Hamas, other militant organizations,
and their associated infrastructure, such as
tunnels and rocket launchers, they expanded
their aerial campaign to include non-military
structures. Regrettably, residential buildings,
media headquarters, as well as refugee and
healthcare facilities, became the unintended
victims of these strikes.
22
also inflicted significant damage to essential
civilian facilities.
23
As casualties continue to rise, it becomes
increasingly challenging to find a path towards
de-escalation and a lasting solution to the
conflict. Both sides are locked in a cycle of
violence, further entrenching their respective
positions and perpetuating the cycle of
retribution. In light of these developments, the
international community faces the urgent task of
intervening and facilitating negotiations that
prioritize a ceasefire, the protection of civilian
lives, and the restoration of essential services.
24
Only through genuine dialogue, respect for
international law, and a commitment to
addressing the rights and aspirations of both
Israelis and Palestinians can a just and lasting
resolution be achieved. On the 21st of May, in
the year 2021, Israel and Hamas reached an
agreement to bring about a cessation of
hostilities, an accord that was skillfully brokered
by Egypt. Both parties involved in the conflict
fervently claimed victory, while remarkably, no
violations of the agreement were reported. It is
extremely disheartening to acknowledge that
during the period of eleven agonizing days, the
conflict resulted in the devastating loss of over
two hundred and fifty precious Palestinian lives,
as well as the infliction of almost two thousand
grievous injuries upon them.
25
damage and destruction amount to tens of
millions of dollars.
26
Chapter 1: Historical Roots
27
momentum. While the idea of Jews returning to
Zion had been part of Jewish religious thought
for centuries, it was only between 1859 and the
1880s that discussions on immigration to the
Land of Israel and the re-establishment of a
Jewish nation became more prominent.
28
Benny Morris records one of the first recorded
violent incidents between Arab Muslims and
Jewish immigrants in Palestine. In December
1882, during a wedding in Safed, an Arab man
was accidentally shot and killed by a Jewish
guard from the newly formed Rosh Pinna. In
response, approximately 200 Arabs attacked the
Jewish settlement, throwing stones and
vandalizing property.
29
Arab leaders in Palestine began considering
Zionist ambitions as a threat. The tension
between the parties intensified due to
developments like the acquisition of Arab lands
for Jewish settlements, causing the Arab
population to feel dispossessed. Ottoman
regulations on land purchase were implemented
in response to local complaints against
increasing Jewish immigration, as the Ottoman
authorities were concerned about Russian and
European influences and the immigrants' loyalty
to their home countries.
30
population in Palestine began demonstrating
against these developments.
31
Later in the evening, Egypt initiated an aerial
offensive against Israel. Despite the imposed
blackout in Tel Aviv and the looming threat of
an Arab invasion, the Jewish community found
solace and jubilation in the establishment of their
long-awaited nation, especially upon receiving
the news that the United States had
acknowledged the legitimacy of the Jewish state.
32
of a Jewish state was imperative for
safeguarding Jews from the pervasive
anti-Semitism they faced. With his astute
leadership, Herzl convened the inaugural Zionist
Congress in Switzerland in 1897, only to
encounter the disappointment of his efforts to
obtain a charter from the Ottoman government
for the establishment of a Jewish state.
33
Subsequently, in 1979, Israel took a
monumental step towards peace by establishing
an agreement with Egypt. This historic peace
accord entailed Israel's relinquishment of the
Sinai Peninsula in exchange for Egyptian
recognition and a commitment to maintain
peaceful relations.
34
sustainable peace has encountered numerous
setbacks, hindering the smooth realization of the
envisioned peace agreement.
35
and the activities of the Zionist movement. As
part of the Arab world, the Palestinians were
influenced by these developments as well. The
influence of Zionism played a particularly
significant role in shaping Palestinian politics
and determining their political future.
36
However, their fortunes and setbacks were
largely dependent on European politics,
especially the actions of major powers. The
growing interest among Arabs in their cultural
heritage and traditions led to the emergence of
Arab nationalism in key cities of the Fertile
Crescent, with Damascus serving as a major
center of political organization and strength.
37
Arab nationalist movement and the external
dismemberment of Syria by Britain and France.
38
contributing to the loss of part of Palestine in
1948. After the war, Palestinian society
experienced fragmentation and dispersal, leading
to a growing heterogeneity in the economic and
political spheres.
39
backgrounds. This shift from the politics of the
elites to mass-based organizations brought about
a distinct change. During the 1950s and early
1960s, Palestinian national identity became
solidified within the context of pan-Arab
ideology.
40
Despite this, ongoing discussions continue to
take place among Palestinians regarding their
national interests. As previously mentioned, the
development of Palestinian national identity and
the process of nation building has become a
tangible reality. From 1982 to 1987,
Palestinians living in occupied territories began
constructing a structure that served as a direct
challenge to the Israeli occupation.
41
It comes as no surprise that the displacement and
estrangement experienced by Palestinians have
only further solidified their sense of national
identity and amplified their commitment to
Palestinian nationalism. Literature, particularly
poetry, plays a pivotal role in shaping the
narrative of Palestinian nationalism,
emphasizing the longing to reclaim their
homeland and achieve independence.
42
In the early 1960s, following a change in
leadership, the Palestinian national movement
embarked on a momentous journey to attain
sovereignty and establish an autonomous
Palestinian state.
43
The organization's existence and
decision-making processes were heavily
influenced by rivalries among Arab nations,
particularly Syria and Egypt, and to a lesser
extent Jordan. Within the PLO, Fatah, a
prominent organization, focused on using
military force against Israel and distanced itself
from the inter-Arab conflict.
44
Palestinian leaders grew disillusioned with the
support they were receiving from Arab regimes
and began advocating for the creation of
independent Palestinian organizations that were
free from external Arab control. Palestinians
shifted their focus from pan-Arabism and Arab
unity to prioritizing Palestinian nationalism and
the fight for independence.
45
The Palestinian nationalist movement has been
characterized by a high level of tolerance for
division and diversity, with pluralism becoming
almost a defining trait. Despite challenging
circumstances and a hostile environment, the
PLO successfully reconstructed a shattered
Palestinian society. Against all odds, it created
a remarkable infrastructure that managed to
address the political and material needs of
dispersed Palestinians.
46
Palestinian nation in diaspora. It is undeniably
true that the PLO intentionally worked towards
establishing a society that encompassed a large
number of people in Lebanon during the 1970s.
47
served as a catalyst, as it galvanized different
factions and individuals, including the Islamic
Movement, to fight for a shared cause.
Consequently, the Islamic Movement played a
pivotal role in shaping Palestinian national
identity during this period.
48
the Palestinian population seeking to reclaim
their rights and dignity. This alignment between
the Islamic Movement's ideology and the
aspirations of the Palestinian people further
solidified their sense of national identity.
49
During this period, the Islamic Movement also
played a critical role in preserving Palestinian
heritage and cultural symbols. By defending
religious and historical sites, such as the
Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Islamic Movement helped
safeguard the collective memory and identity of
the Palestinian people. This protection
enhanced their sense of pride and unity in the
face of Israeli attempts to marginalize their
history.
50
prominent catalyst in this process. Its emphasis
on religion, resistance, and preservation of
cultural heritage resonated with the Palestinian
people, fostering a sense of unity and
determination to reclaim their homeland. The
Islamic Movement's involvement in this conflict
marks a significant turning point as it merged
religious and nationalist principles, effectively
contributing to the formation of a robust and
distinct Palestinian national identity.
51
Despite the presence of secular tendencies
within the Palestinian national movement, the
Islamic dimension has remained a powerful
force in the struggle for independence. This is
why Islam has always been a central point of
discussion and debate in Palestinian politics,
serving as a source of checks and balances
within the Palestinian polity. The emergence of
the Islamic movement in response to complex
conditions prompted Hamas founders to adopt a
strategy that combines pragmatism and realism
to adapt to the political climate.
52
Hamas plays a crucial role in addressing
Palestinian socio-economic and medical needs,
and its military operations against Israel have
further solidified its presence.
53
It is crucial to recognize this difference in order
to grasp the fundamental elements driving the
Palestinian national conversation during the
ongoing Intifada. Consequently, the presence of
occupation and grave socio-economic
circumstances, coupled with the perceived
shortcomings of the Palestinian National
Authority (PNA), have all contributed to the
increased support for Hamas and Islamic Jihad.
54
Palestinians and Israeli security forces in Israel,
Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank throughout
the year. In these incidents, a total of 91
Palestinians and eight Israelis lost their lives in
attacks that took place outside the Green Line in
Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank.
55
worship at the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount.
Additionally, the Israeli government prohibited
Knesset members and government ministers
from visiting the site for security reasons.
56
At the Western Wall, leaders of the Orthodox
Jewish community enforced gender segregation
for Jewish worshippers. However, the cabinet
agreement made in January to establish a
Reform, Conservative, and mixed-gender prayer
platform along a separate portion of the Western
Wall was not implemented by the Israeli
government.
57
The Israeli government detained numerous
individuals in connection with these attacks, but
local human rights groups and the media
reported that successful prosecutions were rare.
58
There were instances of violence committed on
religious grounds, such as Palestinian youths
throwing rocks at Jewish visitors to Joseph's
Tomb in Nablus and the Mount of Olives in
Jerusalem. In addition, Palestinians reportedly
set fire to a synagogue in a West Bank settlement
near Hebron and vandalized the Mount of Olives
cemetery and a synagogue in Jerusalem.
59
practices did not conform to Jewish Orthodox
traditions at religious sites. U.S. Consulate
General officials in Jerusalem held meetings
with Palestinian Authority officials to discuss
religious tolerance and concerns about access to
religious sites.
60
the treatment of clergy, and the incidents of
attacks on religious sites and houses of worship.
61
other hand, Israel's borders with Syria
(specifically via the Israeli-occupied Golan
Heights), Lebanon (through the Blue Line,
which is subject to the Shebaa Farms dispute),
and the Palestinian territories (land occupied by
Israel and largely acknowledged as part of the de
jure State of Palestine) are internationally
accepted as contested areas.
62
Similarly, Israel's border with Jordan is based
on the border defined in the 1922 Trans-Jordan
memorandum and was further solidified in the
1994 Israel-Jordan peace treaty. Israeli
settlements or colonies refer to civilian
communities consisting primarily of Jewish
citizens that have been established on land
occupied by Israel since the Six-Day War in
1967.
63
It is worth noting that Israel has effectively
annexed East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights,
even though this change of status has been
rejected by the international community, which
still considers these territories occupied.
64
Jewish settlers can be found. Additionally, it is
worth mentioning that over 25,000 Israeli
settlers have chosen to reside in the Golan
Heights. In the past, Israeli settlements were
established on both the Sinai Peninsula, which
belongs to Egypt, and the Gaza Strip, which
belongs to the Palestinians.
65
being under Israeli control, and the
establishments established there are considered
illegal settlements.
66
Palestinians and various third parties, including
the OIC, the United Nations, Russia, the United
Kingdom, France, and the European Union.
These settlements are viewed as an obstacle to
the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
67
Gaza and the West Bank: Complex Realities.
68
Hence, it owes its name to its geographical
location. Internationally recognized as a part of
the West Bank, the sacred city of Jerusalem
holds immense importance.
69
For more than a century now, there has been an
ongoing dispute surrounding the particular
regions of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, a
conflict that predates the establishment of Israel.
However, it was following the Six-Day War that
the animosity between Israelis and Palestinians
residing in these areas reached a persistently
high level, frequently culminating in outbreaks
of violence.
70
their lives. This escalation marked one of the
deadliest episodes in decades. In multiple
locations, intense gun battles erupted between
Israeli security forces and numerous fighters
from the Hamas group, creating a tumultuous
and dire situation. Recognizing the severity of
the situation, Israel's defense minister, Yoav
Gallant, made a strong statement today,
threatening to completely transform the reality in
Gaza. The escalation on Saturday resulted in a
devastating toll of over 300 Israeli casualties and
232 Palestinian fatalities.
71
The attack, he stated, was carried out in a
non-discriminatory manner, showing no regard
for the lives of innocent women, children, or the
elderly. Gallant emphasized that Hamas, sooner
rather than later, will come to understand the
magnitude of their grave error.
72
since the 1967 Arab-Israeli conflict, witnessed
an unusually high number of casualties during
this period. The relentless barrage of rockets
directed at Israel has reignited tensions that have
been simmering for months and have now
reached a critical point.
73
populace. Joe Biden, the President of the United
States, reiterated his steadfast and unwavering
commitment to supporting Israel, an important
ally of the United States.
74
The Prime Minister acts as the head of
government, responsible for making decisions
and leading the nation. Within this multi-party
system, the Prime Minister is chosen based on
the political party or coalition that is able to gain
the majority of seats in the Knesset. The
government, also referred to as the cabinet, holds
executive power and is responsible for
implementing policies and making day-to-day
decisions.
75
separation ensures that the judicial system can
operate fairly and impartially, without
interference from political influences. It allows
for a checks-and-balances system, contributing
to the overall democratic nature of the Israeli
government.
76
is vested in the Knesset. The judiciary,
independent of the executive and legislative
branches, ensures the fair and impartial
administration of justice.
77
In addition to these Zionist parties, there are a
number of Orthodox religious parties that do not
align themselves with Zionism. These parties
prioritize their religious beliefs over the Zionist
movement. Similarly, there are secular left-wing
groups that do not identify as Zionists,
advocating instead for leftist ideologies without
a specific focus on Jewish nationalism.
78
movements in Israel are guided by a Zionist
agenda. These groups promote progressive
ideologies, placing emphasis on social justice,
equality, and other principles not necessarily tied
to the Zionist cause.
79
is surprising given the country's population size.
This phenomenon has given rise to a legislature
that is characterized by its fractured nature,
wherein even smaller political entities manage to
secure seats in the Knesset.
80
the nation's political landscape. Some of these
issues include:
81
Palestinian Authority and Governance
Structures.
82
In 1994, the establishment of the Palestinian
Authority came into effect following the
Gaza-Jericho Agreement, a pivotal agreement
between the Palestine Liberation Organization
(PLO) and the Israeli government. Initially set to
serve as a temporary body for a period of five
years, the intention was for further negotiations
between the parties to determine its ultimate
status.
83
East Jerusalem was excluded from the
provisions of the Accords. Despite ongoing
negotiations with various Israeli governments,
the Palestinian Authority managed to increase its
control over certain areas.
84
Unfortunately, the hopes for a unified national
government were shattered when violent
conflicts between Hamas and Fatah erupted,
primarily within the Gaza Strip. The situation
escalated on June 14, 2007, when Hamas
successfully seized control of the Gaza Strip. In
response, the Chairman of the Palestinian
Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, took action by
dismissing the Hamas-led unity government and
appointing Salam Fayyad as the new Prime
Minister, effectively removing Haniyeh from
power.
85
re-unification. In 2005, the Palestinian Authority
received financial help from the European Union
and the United States, totaling approximately
US$1 billion.
86
138 countries have acknowledged the existence
of the State of Palestine, and as of November
2012, the United Nations officially granted the
State of Palestine the status of a non-member
UN observer state. The recognition received
through these international platforms signifies
the growing acceptance and legitimacy of
Palestine in the international community.
87
This curbing of media freedom raises questions
about the authority's commitment to
transparency and accountability. Additionally,
human rights activists have faced difficulties and
hardships due to the authoritarian rule of the
Palestinian Authority. Their activities
challenging the authority's policies and practices
have been met with repression, leading to a
climate of fear and limited space for dissent
within the country.
88
Palestinian population. In order for the State of
Palestine to fully embrace democracy and
human rights, it is crucial that the Palestinian
Authority address these concerns. Implementing
reforms to ensure free and fair elections would
be a positive step towards establishing a more
inclusive and participatory political system.
89
International Mediation Efforts
90
venture into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Despite previously downplaying the issue, the
US government actively sought a victory and
aimed to be the mediator of the ceasefire.
91
Furthermore, these officials have started to adopt
a novel rhetoric that emphasizes the equal rights
of both Israelis and Palestinians in terms of
security, freedom, and prosperity. The United
States assumed the leading role in facilitating
negotiations and actively sought recognition for
its efforts.
92
It was Egypt, as anticipated, that ultimately
secured the ceasefire, reflecting its status as a
key ally of the United States. Conversely, Qatar,
which had played a significant mediating role in
prior episodes of violence, had a lesser impact
this time around. Similarly, the United Nations
envoy, who had previously filled the void left by
the Trump administration on behalf of the
United States, played a less prominent role.
93
which he enthusiastically acknowledged during a
special address delivered from the esteemed
White House, might serve as a significant
turning point that encourages further American
engagement in advancing the peace process.
94
This stance clearly indicates the United States'
desire to increase the involvement and influence
of the PA in Gaza. Notably, this approach
conflicts with Netanyahu's consistent efforts to
encourage the divide between the PA in the West
Bank and Hamas in Gaza. By doing so,
Netanyahu aims to weaken the PA and hinder the
establishment of a Palestinian state.
95
solution. However, it is important to note that
these parameters neither contradict nor replace
the existing framework but rather highlight the
United States' commitment to the rights of both
parties involved.
96
Secretary of State Blinken's ongoing visit to the
Middle East, marking his inaugural trip in this
capacity, presents an opportune moment for
these advocates to convey to the US
administration that its active participation is both
desired and indispensable.
97
Notably, Egypt has never asserted its permanent
sovereignty over Gaza, considering its
administration there to be only temporary until a
Palestinian state is created. Similarly, Jordan
relinquished its claim to the West Bank in 1988,
further supporting the notion of a two-state
solution.
98
These dialogues aim to address the ongoing
conflict and pave the way for a mutually
agreed-upon solution. In August 2013, a new
round of discussions was initiated, facilitated by
John Kerry, the Secretary of State of the United
States. However, these negotiations eventually
fell apart in April 2014 due to the actions taken
by Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the
Palestinian Authority and the leading figure of
Fatah, who opted to sign a reconciliation
agreement with Hamas.
99
The tense and violent atmosphere persisted until
August 26th, when a ceasefire agreement was
finally reached, officially putting an end to the
hostilities. In the midst of the violent
confrontation, a total of 65 Israeli soldiers, along
with four Israeli civilians, tragically lost their
lives.
100
Until Hamas and Fatah reached a reconciliation
agreement, complete control over the territory
was retained by Hamas. Although certain
limitations have been eased, numerous
restrictions still persist. One notable example of
such restrictions is that the majority of ordinary
Gazans are generally denied permission to exit
the territory. The agreement for a ceasefire also
included provisions for Egypt to mediate indirect
discussions between Israel, Hamas, and the
Palestinian Authority (PA).
101
According to international legal principles, the
recognition of statehood relies on specific
criteria, such as the presence of a well-defined
territory and a functioning governmental system.
At this moment, it is evident that the Palestinian
Authority does not fulfill these requirements.
Unless a consensus is reached on a two-state
resolution, the Palestinian Authority will remain
incapable of meeting these standards.
Nevertheless, individual nations possess the
power to express their endorsement of
Palestinian statehood if they desire.
102
This aid program encompasses two significant
elements: firstly, it involves the allocation of
funds to UNRWA, a United Nations agency that
provides assistance to impoverished Palestinians.
Additionally, it entails providing financial
support to the Palestinian Authority. The
controversial aspect lies in the latter argument.
There are individuals who assert that the
Palestinian Authority has displayed excessive
leniency towards Palestinian militant groups,
thus advocating for the discontinuation of UK
funding.
103
Israeli-Palestinian conflict. An additional effort
has also been made since the 1970s to establish
common grounds for peace in both the
Arab-Israeli and Palestinian-Israeli conflicts.
While certain nations have successfully signed
peace treaties, like the Egypt-Israel and
Jordan-Israel treaties, others have yet to discover
a shared foundation on which to do so.
104
Throughout the years following 1967, there has
been a change in focus within the United States
government from emphasizing the components
necessary for achieving "peace" to spotlighting
the actual "process" of attaining it. In essence,
the United States has not only provided a sense
of guidance but has also developed a mechanism
to facilitate these peace efforts. In its most
positive form, this is the ultimate objective of the
peace process. However, during its worst
moments, it has merely served as a catchphrase
employed to conceal the unproductive passage
of time.
105
Prospects for a Sustainable Resolution
106
capabilities. Furthermore, it poses a significant
risk of completely eradicating any remaining
hope of attaining a viable and long-lasting
resolution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,
squashing the prospects of a two-state solution
indefinitely.
107
period is uncertain, raising doubts about the
future identity of the Israeli nation. The Oslo
Accords, which once held promise for resolving
the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by establishing
frameworks and pathways for a two-state
solution, have now become a thing of the past.
108
Palestinian Authority (PA) is facing a legitimacy
crisis that may be perceived as less pressing.
Recent surveys have indicated that a significant
majority of Palestinians have become
disillusioned with the PA and are inclined
towards its abolition.
109
have, regrettably, become somewhat
commonplace. Furthermore, compounding the
issue is the prevalent weariness surrounding the
Middle East peace process in the realm of global
diplomacy.
110
Under Trump's administration, which saw a
strong affinity with Israeli Prime Minister
Netanyahu, the conditions necessary for
achieving a two-state solution were further
eroded. As a result, it is not surprising that a
growing number of Palestinians have been
overwhelmed by feelings of hopelessness and
desolation. With the onset of the holy month of
Ramadan (March 22–April 20) and the
celebration of Passover (April 5–13), a period of
intense emotions and heightened tensions is
anticipated.
111
The era of Oslo has become distant and
outdated. Without a significant reevaluation and
rearrangement of the key matters involved, the
chances of achieving peace again seem
uncertain. Hence, the crucial query arises: can
the once-dormant field of international
diplomacy be revitalized? The probable
consequence as lead to the eruption of severe
violence and potentially an extended period of
warfare.
112