Despite the fact that the Israel-Palestine conflict is rooted in history, it has been shaped in its modern form in the 20th century. Explain.
Israel-Palestine conflict refers to the territorial dispute between Israeli Jews and Palestinian Arabs for settlement and human rights.
History and evolution:
- Arab Muslims and Jews claiming birthright to the Israeli territory.
- Presence of holy religious sites of both diligence. E.g. Al Aqsa mosque.
- Importance of Jerusalem as a holy city for both Muslims and Jews.
20th century revival:
- Britain Balfour declaration (1917), For all national home of Jews.
- Holocaust during Second World War created global empathy for Jews.
- Return of jews to homeland and UN declaration of two states – Arab and Israel.
- Forced Zionist occupation and creation of Israel (1948). Removal of Palestinian refugees.
- Arab Israel wars and illegal territory occupation – 1948 war, six day war (1967) etc.
- Israel’s control of West Bank, Jordan, Golan Heights and creation of PLO – Oslo accords (1990s).
Present conflicts:
- East Jerusalem claimed by Palestine.
- Hamas terror in Gaza.
- Stalled negotiations.
- Arab-Israel accords (2020).
India’s de-hyphenated Israel-Palestine policy is a step in the right direction.
Topics: GS-I: World Wars, Cold War and Other Major Events of 20th Century