ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT: HISTORICAL ORIGINS, CURRENT IMPACT, AND

PATHWAYS TO PEACE

References:
A. Joint Service Staff Duties Manual
B. Diplomatic Records on Middle East Affairs

Introduction
1. Background
The Israel-Palestine conflict is a prolonged and intricate dispute with deeply rooted
historical, political, and religious dimensions. Beginning in the late 19th and early 20th
centuries, this conflict has seen cycles of violence, diplomatic efforts, and repeated
attempts at peace, all of which underscore the intractable nature of the competing claims to
the same territory by both Jewish and Arab populations. Sparked by nationalist aspirations
and amplified by the Zionist movement, the desire for a Jewish homeland led to significant
Jewish migration to Ottoman-controlled Palestine, creating demographic shifts that laid the
groundwork for future tensions.
2. Importance of the Topic
The Israel-Palestine conflict is pivotal to understanding the broader political and ideological
landscape of the Middle East. It has influenced regional and global alliances, shaped public
sentiments, and played a role in the broader ideological divisions between Western nations
and parts of the Muslim world. As a deeply emotive issue, the conflict has spurred both
regional instability and attempts at solidarity, affecting the domestic policies and
international relations of neighboring states.
3. Scope of the Paper
This paper examines the origins of the Israel-Palestine conflict, delves into the underlying
causes, addresses recent developments, and assesses its impact on the wider Middle East.
Additionally, it outlines viable pathways toward a lasting and sustainable peace,
emphasizing diplomatic, economic, and grassroots efforts.

Aim
4. To comprehensively analyze the origins, root causes, recent developments, and regional
impacts of the Israel-Palestine conflict, with a focus on exploring sustainable peace
strategies and assessing the role of international actors and grassroots initiatives.

Genesis and Background of the Conflict

5. Emergence of Nationalism and British Influence
The roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict can be traced back to the late 19th century, as both
Jewish and Arab nationalist movements gained momentum, each viewing Palestine as an
essential part of their heritage and future sovereignty. As Jews faced persecution across
Europe, the Zionist movement sought to establish a homeland in the region. This effort was
further supported by the British government through the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which
expressed support for “a national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine, despite the
 area’s predominantly Arab population. British control over Palestine after World War I
intensified tensions as Jewish immigration surged.
6. Partition and the First Arab-Israeli War
Following the horrors of the Holocaust in World War II, the global call for a Jewish state
grew stronger, resulting in the 1947 United Nations proposal to partition Palestine into
separate Jewish and Arab states. However, the plan was rejected by Arab leaders, leading
to violence. In 1948, Israel declared independence, sparking the first Arab-Israeli war. The
war led to significant Palestinian displacement, known as the Nakba or "catastrophe," in
which hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fled or were expelled from their homes. This
conflict set the stage for future confrontations.
7. The Six-Day War and Occupation
In 1967, the Six-Day War marked another turning point. Israel captured the West Bank,
Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem, and other territories, which have remained central to
Palestinian aspirations for statehood. The occupation of these areas created a long-
standing geopolitical divide, with Israeli settlements expanding into Palestinian territories,
further complicating efforts toward a peaceful resolution.

Root Causes of the Conflict

8. Competing Territorial Claims
Central to the Israel-Palestine conflict is the competing territorial claims over regions such
as the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. Palestinians view these areas as the
basis for a future independent state, while many Israelis, especially religious Zionists,
consider them integral to their historical and religious identity.
9. Religious and Cultural Significance of Jerusalem
The city of Jerusalem, housing sacred sites for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, is another
focal point of the conflict. Both Israelis and Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their capital,
adding layers of religious and nationalist fervor to the dispute. Access and control over key
religious sites have often ignited violence, further entrenching the divisions between the two
communities.
10. The Palestinian Refugee Crisis
The displacement of Palestinians following the 1948 and 1967 conflicts has created a
persistent refugee crisis, with millions of Palestinians still living in refugee camps in
neighboring countries. These refugees seek the “right of return” to their ancestral lands, a
demand Israel resists due to demographic and security concerns. This unresolved issue
remains a significant barrier to peace, with both sides holding firm on their respective
positions.
11. Differing National Identities and Security Concerns
For Palestinians, the absence of a sovereign state represents a denial of their right to self-
determination. For Israel, concerns over national security play a crucial role, especially
given historical instances where relinquished territories were used to launch attacks against
Israeli civilians. These competing narratives—security for Israel and sovereignty for
Palestinians—have repeatedly hindered diplomatic progress.

Recent Developments in the Conflict

 12. Escalating Tensions and 2021 Clashes
The conflict witnessed heightened violence in 2021 when disputes over evictions in East
Jerusalem led to clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. These confrontations
escalated into an 11-day conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, resulting in hundreds
of casualties and widespread destruction, underscoring the volatility of Jerusalem’s status.
13. Settlements and International Stance
The ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem
continues to inflame tensions, with the international community largely condemning these
settlements as violations of international law. For Palestinians, these settlements signify the
loss of land meant for their future state, while Israel views them as part of its historical right
to the land.
14. Peace Efforts and the Abraham Accords
Recent diplomatic efforts, including the Abraham Accords, have reshaped Middle Eastern
alliances, with several Arab nations normalizing relations with Israel. While these
agreements represent a shift in regional dynamics, they have not directly addressed the
core issues of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The “Deal of the Century” proposed by the
Trump administration allowed for Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank, which was
met with strong Palestinian opposition.
15. Internal Divisions Among Palestinians
The political division between Fatah in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza has fragmented
Palestinian leadership, weakening their negotiating position and creating further obstacles
to peace. This division complicates efforts to present a united front in peace negotiations
with Israel.

Impact of the Conflict on the Middle East

16. Shifts in Regional Alliances
Historically, Arab countries unified in support of the Palestinian cause, resulting in multiple
Arab-Israeli wars. However, recent agreements, such as the Abraham Accords, indicate a
shift, with some Arab states prioritizing economic and strategic partnerships with Israel over
direct support for the Palestinian cause, although public sentiment remains largely
sympathetic toward Palestinians.
17. Radicalization and Security Threats
The conflict has been a rallying point for extremist groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah,
who capitalize on anti-Israel sentiment to gain support. This radicalization complicates
counter-terrorism efforts in the region and impacts the stability of countries where these
groups are active.
18. Economic and Social Pressures on Host Nations
Countries hosting large Palestinian refugee populations, such as Jordan, Lebanon, and
Syria, face significant economic and social strains. Refugees in these countries often
experience limited rights and economic opportunities, which can contribute to social
instability and influence the domestic policies of host nations.
19. Global Diplomatic Ramifications
The conflict has shaped the foreign policies of global powers, especially the United States,
whose support for Israel has at times strained relations with Arab nations. The Abraham
Accords suggest a potential realignment, as some Arab states prioritize strategic interests
over the Palestinian cause, which may influence future peace efforts.
Ways Forward for Sustainable Peace between Israel and Palestine
20. Two-State Solution as a Framework
The two-state solution, envisioning an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel,
remains the most widely endorsed pathway for peace. This approach would require clear
delineation of borders, mutual agreements on security arrangements, and a resolution to
the refugee crisis. However, recent developments have made this solution increasingly
difficult to achieve.
21. Confidence-Building Measures
Halting Israeli settlement expansion, enhancing Palestinian autonomy, and improving
economic conditions in Palestinian territories are vital steps to fostering trust and creating
an environment conducive to peace. Initiatives focused on Palestinian infrastructure
development could reduce immediate tensions and address socioeconomic grievances.
22. Grassroots and People-to-People Initiatives
Programs that promote dialogue and cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians are
essential for dismantling stereotypes and building mutual understanding. By fostering
empathy and collaboration, these initiatives can play a crucial role in laying the foundation
for a peaceful future.
23. International Mediation and Regional Partnerships
The involvement of global and regional actors, including the United States, European
Union, and neighboring Arab countries, is crucial for facilitating balanced negotiations.
These actors can support a stable peace process by applying diplomatic pressure,
providing financial support, and encouraging compromise on sensitive issues.

Conclusion
24. Summarizing the Conflict’s Complexity
The Israel-Palestine conflict is deeply rooted in historical, nationalistic, and religious claims
to the same land.