Explore the origins of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict starting from the Balfour Declaration in 1917. Delve into the process of initiating peace talks amid intense fighting. Learn about the 16-year rule of Netanyahu and the shift to the right in Israeli politics. Discuss the stagnant politics and lack of progress in resolving the conflict. Understand the challenges in achieving diplomatic progress amidst the sense of victimhood and desire for security felt by both sides.
The conflict between Israelis and Palestinians has its roots in the Balfour Declaration of 1917, which expressed support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine, leading to resentment among the Palestinian Arab population.
The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and their presence continues to shape the political and cultural landscape of the region.
Deep dives
The Beginnings of the Conflict in 1917
The conflict between Israelis and Palestinians has its roots in events that unfolded in 1917 during World War I. At that time, Britain issued the Balfour Declaration, which expressed support for the establishment of a homeland for the Jewish people in Palestine. This declaration was met with resentment by the Palestinian Arab population who considered it a threat to their land. However, Britain's implementation of the promise was cautious and limited, leading to continued tensions between the two sides.
The Formation of Israel and the Displacement of Palestinians
Following World War II and the Holocaust, the international community recognized the need for a Jewish state. In 1948, the State of Israel was established, leading to a displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who were forced to flee or were uprooted from their homes. Many of them ended up in Gaza, where their presence continues to shape the political and cultural landscape of the region.
The Six-Day War and the Control of Gaza
The 1967 Six-Day War between Israel and Arab nations resulted in Israel gaining control over the Gaza Strip, which had previously been under Egyptian administration. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians found themselves under Israeli control again, contributing to the enduring conflict in the region. The war also affirmed Israel's military superiority in the region.
The Oslo Accords and the Difficulties of a Two-State Solution
The Oslo Accords, signed in the early 1990s, aimed to establish a framework for peace between Israel and Palestine. While the accords showed some promise, political complications, violence, and the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin hindered progress. Over time, the chances of achieving a two-state solution, with an independent Israel and Palestine living side by side, became increasingly challenging due to entrenched political positions and continued violence.
The past century has seen the borders of Palestine and then Israel shift. From the Balfour Declaration in 1917 – when Britain first promised a Jewish homeland – a fierce struggle over land and nationhood has taken place. Whether you need a beginner’s guide to the history or just a reminder, we'll take you from that date through to the conflict today.
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Guest: Kevin Connolly, former BBC Middle East correspondent.