The History of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict and the Stalemate in Ceasefire Negotiations

The ongoing battle between Israel and the Islamic militant group Hamas in the Palestinian self-governing territory of Gaza has recently intensified. Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, causing shock, and in response, the Israeli military has intensified airstrikes on the Gaza Strip. Hamas has also fired numerous rockets at Israel, resulting in a continuous rise in casualties on both sides.

Why have Israel and Palestine continued to repeat this brutal conflict throughout history? This stems from the ongoing conflict between Jews and Arabs that has lasted for over 2,000 years.

In the 19th century, the Zionist movement emerged among Jews, advocating for the establishment of a nation in Palestine, the land of their ancient kingdom. During World War I, Britain promised to support the establishment of a Jewish state, while falsely promising Arabs that they could establish an independent nation if they fought against the Ottoman Empire. After the Holocaust, the Nazi German genocide of Jews, the Jewish people desired even more strongly to establish a permanent homeland.

The establishment of the Jewish state of Israel in Palestine in 1948 marked the beginning of a full-fledged conflict between Arabs and Jews. 700,000 Palestinians were tragically expelled from their homes, and currently, they reside in the West Bank and Gaza Strip under Israeli occupation. Gaza, in particular, is a cramped area with a population of 2 million, facing dire conditions and referred to as a 'prison without walls'.

In 2000, a clash was triggered when Ariel Sharon, a right-wing Israeli politician, visited a holy Islamic site, shattering the hope for peace that the Oslo Accords had built. Within Palestine, the influence of radical groups expanded as Hamas won the 2006 elections following the death of the moderate leader Yasser Arafat. Subsequently, Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip, while the Palestinian Authority, led by Fatah, which continues to engage in peace negotiations with Israel, governs the West Bank.

International cooperation is crucial to resolving this issue. However, the United States prioritizes the Iran nuclear deal over the Palestinian issue due to the significant influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups within the country and its substantial military aid to Israel. Meanwhile, there are signs of change, with Arab countries like the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain forging or exploring diplomatic ties with Israel.

Nevertheless, countless Palestinian refugees continue to live without even the bare necessities. To find a solution, both Israel and Palestine must compromise. While ceasefire negotiations are currently at a standstill, the ultimate goal must be a fair two-state solution. This is why the international community must remain engaged and actively mediate the situation.