Views on Israeli-Palestinian conflict: Israel, a two-state solution, some recent perceptions

Source: The post views on Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been created, based on the article “Israel, a two-state solution, some recent perceptions” published in “The Hindu” on 20th April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

News: The article discusses the complex and ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, including historical events, negotiations, and differing perspectives on solutions. It mentions various factors like territorial disputes, security concerns, international diplomacy, and shifts in public opinion regarding conflict.

For details information on Israel–Palestine Conflict read here

What is the origin of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict?

The origin of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is rooted in disputes over land and national identity.

Historical debates challenge myths about Israel’s founding, including that Palestine was an empty land and Zionism equates to Judaism.

Key events shaping the conflict include the wars of 1948, 1956, and 1967, and UN resolutions 242 and 338.

The 1967 war particularly altered the landscape, benefiting Israel and leading to ongoing territorial disputes.

The conflict has been compounded by international diplomatic efforts, shifts in public opinion, and varying narratives from both Israeli and Palestinian perspectives.

What are the views on Israeli–Palestinian conflict?

Israeli Views:

Israeli scholars like Ilan Pappé have questioned foundational myths of Israel, arguing against ideas such as “Palestine was an empty land.”

Political movements within Israel, like the Likud Party, support annexing West Bank settlements, asserting a biblical right to the land.

Palestinian Views:

Palestinians seek recognition of their state based on the 1967 borders.

The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) has been recognized as the “sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people” since 1974.

International Perspective:

The U.S. supports a two-state solution with a de-militarized Palestine.

The Arab League has endorsed solutions promoting a normalized Palestinian state under conditions like those in the Abraham Accords.

Arab countries, influenced by the Arab Spring, look for a peaceful solution involving a state for Palestinians that would not threaten Israel.

How have recent developments influenced the situation?

Political Actions: In 2018, Israel’s Likud Party endorsed the annexation of West Bank settlements, reinforcing hardline policies against compromise.

International Dynamics: Recent U.S. policies have provided unprecedented diplomatic and military support for Israel, yet there’s growing criticism of Israel’s actions.

Public Opinion Shifts: Younger Jewish Americans and Israelis are distancing themselves from traditional pro-Israel stances, reflecting a shift in attitudes.

Question for practice:

Discuss the impact of recent developments, including political actions, international dynamics, and shifts in public opinion, on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.