Why Does Israel Attack On Palestine? Understanding the Conflict

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including the question of why Israel attacks on Palestine, is a complex and deeply rooted issue with historical, political, and religious dimensions. WHY.EDU.VN breaks down the key events and perspectives to help you understand this ongoing struggle. Understanding the historical context and the different claims to the land is crucial. Explore the nuances of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including geopolitical influences, human rights concerns, and proposed resolutions.

1. What Are the Historical Roots of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict?

The historical roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are intricate, dating back over a century. WHY.EDU.VN provides a comprehensive overview of these origins:

Ottoman Rule: Prior to World War I, the region known as Palestine was part of the Ottoman Empire.
British Mandate: After the Ottoman Empire’s defeat, Britain took control of Palestine. At that time, the population consisted of an Arab majority and a Jewish minority, along with other ethnic groups.
Balfour Declaration (1917): A pivotal moment occurred when the UK declared its support for the establishment of a “national home” for Jewish people in Palestine. This declaration heightened tensions between the Jewish and Arab populations, as Palestinian Arabs also had historical claims to the land and opposed the move. The British insisted that the rights of existing Palestinian Arabs be protected.
Increased Jewish Immigration: Between the 1920s and 1940s, there was a significant increase in Jewish immigration to Palestine, driven by persecution in Europe. The Holocaust further intensified the need for a safe haven for Jewish people.
UN Partition Plan (1947): Amidst growing violence between Jews and Arabs and against British rule, the United Nations proposed dividing Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city. Arab nations rejected this plan, arguing that it allocated more land to the Jews despite their smaller population. Britain abstained and withdrew its mandate, leaving the issue to the UN.
Declaration of Independence (1948): Jewish leaders declared the independent state of Israel hours before the end of British rule.

Group of Arab men sharing a meal in Jericho, Palestine, circa 1925

2. What Happened During the 1948 Arab-Israeli War?

The 1948 Arab-Israeli War, also known as the War of Independence in Israel, dramatically reshaped the region. WHY.EDU.VN details the key events:

Arab Invasion: The day after Israel declared independence, it was attacked by the armies of five Arab nations.
Territorial Control: By the end of the fighting in 1949, Israel controlled most of the territory. Egypt occupied the Gaza Strip, Jordan occupied the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and Israel occupied West Jerusalem.
Palestinian Displacement: Around 750,000 Palestinians were displaced from their homes, becoming refugees. This event is known as the Nakba (Catastrophe) in Arabic.
Jewish Emigration: In subsequent years, hundreds of thousands of Jews left or were expelled from Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East and North Africa, with many immigrating to Israel.

3. What Were the Consequences of the 1967 Six-Day War?

The Six-Day War in 1967 had profound and lasting effects on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. WHY.EDU.VN explains:

Territorial Gains: Israel fought against Egypt, Syria, and Jordan, capturing the Sinai Peninsula and Gaza from Egypt, most of the Golan Heights from Syria, and East Jerusalem and the West Bank from Jordan.
Palestinian Population Under Occupation: Approximately one million Palestinians in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem came under Israeli control.
Occupation Continues: Israel’s occupation of these territories persists to this day.
Peace Treaty with Egypt: Israel signed a peace treaty with Egypt in 1979 and returned the Sinai Peninsula. However, it annexed East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, a move not recognized by most of the international community.

4. What Is the Current Status of the West Bank?

The West Bank remains a focal point of the conflict. WHY.EDU.VN provides the current context:

Palestinian Population: The West Bank, located between Israel and the River Jordan, is home to an estimated three million Palestinians.
Occupied Palestinian Territory: Along with East Jerusalem and Gaza, the West Bank is widely recognized as part of the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Palestinian Aspirations: Palestinians seek these territories as part of a future independent state, a position supported by most of the international community.
Israeli Control: Israel maintains overall control of the West Bank, but the Palestinian Authority governs most of its towns and cities since the 1990s.
Israeli Settlements: There are approximately 150 Israeli settlements housing around 700,000 Jews in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Legality of Settlements: Palestinians consider Israeli settlements illegal under international law and demand their removal. Israel disputes this, asserting historical rights and the permanence of the largest settlements.
Israeli Expansion Plans: The Israeli government has announced plans to expand settlements, viewing a Palestinian state as a security threat.
International Court of Justice Ruling: In July 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared Israel’s continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories illegal, calling for the withdrawal of settlers and citing breaches of international agreements on racism and apartheid.

5. What Is the Dispute Over Jerusalem?

The status of Jerusalem is one of the most contentious issues in the conflict. WHY.EDU.VN elucidates the key points:

Competing Claims: Both Israel and the Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their capital.
Israeli Control: Israel occupied East Jerusalem in the 1967 war and declared the entire city its unified capital, asserting it cannot be divided.
Palestinian Aspirations: Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state.
Demographics: The majority of East Jerusalem’s population is Palestinian, with only a small minority holding Israeli citizenship.
Holy Sites: Holy sites in Jerusalem, particularly the Al Aqsa Mosque compound (Haram al-Sharif) for Muslims and Temple Mount for Jews, are central to the conflict.
International Recognition: The UN and most international bodies consider East Jerusalem to be Palestinian land occupied by Israel.

6. What Has Been Happening in the Gaza Strip?

The Gaza Strip is a critical area in the conflict. WHY.EDU.VN provides a detailed overview:

Geography and Demographics: The Gaza Strip is a densely populated area, 41km long and 10km wide, bordered by Israel, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea, and home to approximately 2.3 million people.
Socio-Economic Conditions: Even before recent conflicts, Gaza faced high unemployment rates and widespread poverty, with many residents relying on food aid.
Historical Context: Gaza’s boundaries were established after the 1948 Middle East war, during which it was occupied by Egypt.
Israeli Occupation and Withdrawal: Israel occupied Gaza after the 1967 war, building settlements and placing the Palestinian population under military rule. In 2005, Israel withdrew its troops and settlers but retained control over the shared border, airspace, and shoreline.
Continued Occupation: The UN still considers Gaza as Israeli-occupied territory due to Israel’s control.
Hamas Control: Hamas won Palestinian elections in 2006 and took control of Gaza in 2007 after intense fighting.
Blockade: Israel and Egypt imposed a blockade in response, with Israel controlling the entry of goods and movement of people.
Major Conflicts: Hamas and Israel have engaged in multiple major conflicts, including those in 2008-09, 2012, 2014, and 2021, resulting in casualties on both sides, predominantly Palestinians in Gaza.
October 7, 2023 Attack: On October 7, 2023, Hamas fighters launched an attack from Gaza, killing approximately 1,200 people in Israel and taking over 250 hostages.
Israeli Military Offensive: This attack triggered a large-scale Israeli military offensive in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 46,700 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Humanitarian Crisis: UN humanitarian agencies have declared a demand for an end to the “appalling human suffering and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza”.
Potential Ceasefire Deal: In January 2025, after 15 months of war, Israel and Hamas reached a deal to halt the war and release Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

7. Which Countries Recognize a Palestinian State?

International recognition of a Palestinian state remains a significant issue. WHY.EDU.VN provides the details:

UN Vote: In May 2024, 143 out of 193 members of the United Nations General Assembly voted in favor of a Palestinian bid for full UN membership.
Status at the UN: Known as the State of Palestine at the UN, it has an official status of “Permanent Observer State,” which allows it a seat but not a vote.
Non-Recognition: Some European countries, along with the US, do not recognize a Palestinian state, stating they will only do so as part of a long-term political solution to the conflict.
UK Position: In the UK, MPs voted in favor of recognition in 2014, but the government has not yet done so. In 2021, the government stated that the UK will recognize a Palestinian state “at a time of our choosing, and when it best serves the objective of peace.”
Israeli Opposition: Israel opposes an independent Palestinian state, viewing it as a security threat and asserting historical rights to the West Bank.

8. What Is the Situation with Palestinian Refugees?

The issue of Palestinian refugees is a long-standing and complex aspect of the conflict. WHY.EDU.VN explains:

Refugee Numbers: Approximately 5.9 million Palestinians are registered by the UN as refugees.
Origins: They are descendants of Palestinians who fled or were forced from their homes on land that became Israel during the 1948-49 Middle East war.
Locations: Most Palestinian refugees live in Jordan, the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Syria, and Lebanon.
Right of Return: Palestinians insist on the right of refugees to return to their former homes, a demand that Israel has rejected.
UNRWA Criticism: Israel criticizes the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency, UNRWA, for allowing refugee status to be inherited by successive generations.

9. What Is the Two-State Solution?

The two-state solution is a widely discussed approach to resolving the conflict. WHY.EDU.VN details the proposal:

Definition: The “two-state solution” is an internationally backed formula for peace between Israel and the Palestinians, proposing an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza, with East Jerusalem as its capital, existing alongside Israel.
Israeli Rejection: Israel rejects a two-state solution, insisting that any final settlement must result from negotiations with the Palestinians and that statehood should not be a precondition.
Palestinian Positions: The Palestinian Authority supports a two-state solution, but Hamas opposes it because they do not recognize Israel’s right to exist.
Hamas Stance: Hamas has stated it could accept an interim Palestinian state based on 1967 de facto borders, without officially recognizing Israel, if refugees were given the right to return.
Oslo Accords: Earlier efforts to settle the conflict included the Oslo Peace Accords in 1993, intended to provide a framework for peace talks. However, talks eventually collapsed.

10. What Are the Key Reasons Behind the Ongoing Conflict?

The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict is fueled by several key factors. WHY.EDU.VN outlines these reasons:

10.1. Territorial Disputes and Land Claims

Historical and Religious Significance

The land holds deep historical and religious significance for both Israelis and Palestinians. For Israelis, it is the ancient homeland promised in religious texts. For Palestinians, it is their ancestral land, where they have lived for centuries.

Conflicting Claims to Sovereignty

Both sides claim sovereignty over the same territories, particularly Jerusalem and the West Bank. These overlapping claims make it difficult to find a mutually agreeable resolution.

10.2. Political and Security Concerns

Israeli Security Imperatives

Israel views its military actions as necessary for its security, particularly in response to attacks from militant groups like Hamas. The need to protect its citizens from rockets, tunnels, and other forms of aggression is a primary driver of Israeli policies.

Palestinian Self-Determination

Palestinians seek self-determination and an end to the Israeli occupation. They believe they have the right to an independent state in the West Bank and Gaza, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

10.3. Displacement and Refugee Issues

The Palestinian Refugee Crisis

The displacement of Palestinians during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and subsequent conflicts has created a large refugee population. The right of return for these refugees is a contentious issue.

Israeli Settlements

The establishment and expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank are seen as a major obstacle to peace. These settlements are considered illegal under international law, though Israel disputes this.

10.4. Religious Factors

Holy Sites

Jerusalem is home to holy sites for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Control and access to these sites are a major source of tension.

Religious Nationalism

Religious nationalism on both sides fuels the conflict. Some Israelis believe they have a divine right to the land, while some Palestinians view the conflict as a religious struggle against occupation.

10.5. Geopolitical Influences

Regional Power Dynamics

The involvement of regional powers, such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, complicates the conflict. These countries support different factions and pursue their own strategic interests.

International Community

The international community is divided on how to address the conflict. Some countries support Israel, while others support the Palestinians. This division makes it difficult to achieve a consensus on a peaceful resolution.

10.6. Failed Peace Processes

The Oslo Accords

The Oslo Accords of the 1990s raised hopes for a peaceful resolution, but the process eventually stalled due to mutual distrust and a failure to address core issues.

Subsequent Negotiations

Subsequent negotiations have also failed to produce a lasting peace agreement. Both sides blame each other for the lack of progress.

Understanding these multifaceted factors is essential for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

FAQ: Understanding the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Question	Answer
1. What are the main causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?	The conflict stems from competing claims over land, historical grievances, political aspirations, security concerns, and religious factors.
2. What is the significance of Jerusalem in the conflict?	Jerusalem holds immense religious and historical significance for both Israelis and Palestinians. Both claim it as their capital, leading to disputes over sovereignty and control of holy sites.
3. What is the “two-state solution”?	The two-state solution proposes the creation of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, allowing both peoples to have self-determination and security.
4. What role do Israeli settlements play in the conflict?	Israeli settlements in the West Bank are a major point of contention. Palestinians and the international community view them as illegal and an obstacle to peace, while Israel disputes this.
5. What is the situation in the Gaza Strip?	The Gaza Strip is a densely populated area under Hamas control, facing significant humanitarian challenges due to ongoing conflict and a blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt.
6. How did the 1948 Arab-Israeli War impact the conflict?	The 1948 war led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, creating a refugee crisis and shaping the territorial boundaries that continue to be disputed today.
7. What is the role of Hamas in the conflict?	Hamas is a Palestinian militant group that controls Gaza and has engaged in numerous conflicts with Israel. Its rejection of Israel’s right to exist and its use of violence contribute to the ongoing tensions.
8. What is the international community’s stance on the conflict?	The international community is divided, with some countries supporting Israel, others supporting the Palestinians, and many advocating for a two-state solution. This division complicates efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution.
9. What are the main obstacles to achieving peace?	Obstacles include mutual distrust, unresolved core issues such as borders and refugees, political instability, and the influence of extremist groups on both sides.
10. How do religious factors influence the conflict?	Religious factors exacerbate the conflict, with Jerusalem’s holy sites, religious nationalism, and competing religious claims fueling tensions and complicating the search for a peaceful resolution.
11. What is the Balfour Declaration and its significance?	The Balfour Declaration of 1917 was a British statement supporting the establishment of a “national home” for Jewish people in Palestine, which heightened tensions with the Arab population and laid the groundwork for future conflict.
12. What happened during the Six-Day War in 1967?	The Six-Day War resulted in Israel’s capture of the Sinai Peninsula, Gaza Strip, West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Golan Heights, leading to the occupation of Palestinian territories and a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape.
13. What is the Palestinian Authority?	The Palestinian Authority (PA) is a governing body that exercises limited self-rule in parts of the West Bank. It was established as part of the Oslo Accords to administer Palestinian territories.
14. What are the key differences between Fatah and Hamas?	Fatah is a Palestinian political party that historically advocated for a two-state solution through negotiation. Hamas is a militant group that rejects Israel’s existence and has used armed resistance.
15. What are the main challenges facing Palestinian refugees?	Palestinian refugees face challenges including displacement, statelessness, poverty, and limited access to basic services. The right of return and compensation for lost property are central to their demands.
16. How do regional and international powers influence the conflict?	Regional powers like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, and international actors like the United States, the European Union, and the United Nations, exert influence through diplomatic efforts, financial support, and political pressure, often pursuing their own strategic interests.
17. What role does international law play in the conflict?	International law is frequently invoked in the conflict, particularly regarding the legality of Israeli settlements, the rights of Palestinians under occupation, and the principles of self-determination and human rights. However, compliance with international law remains a contentious issue.
18. What are the main reasons for the failure of past peace efforts?	Reasons include mutual distrust, unresolved core issues, political instability, the influence of extremist groups, and a lack of sustained commitment from both sides and the international community.
19. How does the conflict affect daily life for Israelis and Palestinians?	The conflict impacts daily life through violence, security measures, economic hardship, restrictions on movement, and psychological stress. Both Israelis and Palestinians experience trauma and loss as a result of the ongoing tensions.
20. What are some potential pathways to a more peaceful future?	Potential pathways include renewed negotiations, confidence-building measures, addressing core issues such as borders and refugees, promoting economic development, and fostering mutual understanding and reconciliation through education and cultural exchange.
21. What is the role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)?	UNRWA provides essential services, including education, healthcare, and humanitarian assistance, to Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. It is a critical lifeline for millions of refugees, but its operations have faced challenges and controversies.
22. What is the impact of the security barrier (separation wall) on the conflict?	The security barrier, also known as the separation wall or apartheid wall, is a physical barrier built by Israel in the West Bank. Israel says it is necessary for security, while Palestinians view it as an illegal land grab that restricts their movement and divides communities.
23. What is the status of East Jerusalem under international law?	Under international law, East Jerusalem is considered occupied territory. The international community does not recognize Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem, and Palestinians claim it as the capital of their future state.
24. What is administrative detention in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?	Administrative detention is a procedure that allows the Israeli military to hold Palestinians without charge or trial for extended periods of time, based on secret information. Human rights organizations criticize this practice, citing concerns about due process and human rights abuses.
25. What is the significance of the Jordan River in the conflict?	The Jordan River forms part of the border between Jordan and the West Bank. It is a vital water resource in the region, and competition over its use has contributed to tensions between Israel, Jordan, and the Palestinians.
26. How do economic factors contribute to the conflict?	Economic disparities and restrictions on Palestinian economic development contribute to frustration and instability. The Israeli occupation has limited Palestinian economic growth, while Israeli businesses benefit from access to Palestinian markets and resources.
27. What is the role of third-party mediation in resolving the conflict?	Third-party mediation, often led by the United States, the European Union, or other international actors, aims to facilitate negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, bridge gaps, and propose solutions. However, the effectiveness of mediation efforts depends on the willingness of both sides to engage in good-faith negotiations.
28. How do social media and digital technology influence the conflict?	Social media and digital technology play a significant role in shaping public opinion, disseminating information, and mobilizing support for both sides of the conflict. However, they also contribute to the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and incitement to violence.
29. What is the impact of the conflict on women and children?	Women and children are disproportionately affected by the conflict, experiencing trauma, displacement, loss of loved ones, and disruption to their education and livelihoods. They also face specific challenges related to gender-based violence and discrimination.
30. What are some grassroots peacebuilding initiatives in the region?	Grassroots peacebuilding initiatives bring together Israelis and Palestinians in dialogue, joint projects, and community activities to promote understanding, empathy, and cooperation. These initiatives aim to build trust and lay the foundation for a more peaceful future.
31. What is the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement and its impact?	The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement is a global campaign promoting economic and political pressure on Israel to comply with international law and end the occupation of Palestinian territories. Supporters argue it is a non-violent way to advocate for Palestinian rights, while critics label it as antisemitic and harmful to peace efforts.
32. What is the role of international humanitarian organizations in the conflict?	International humanitarian organizations provide essential aid, medical assistance, and protection to civilians affected by the conflict. They work to alleviate suffering, address urgent needs, and uphold humanitarian principles in a complex and challenging environment.
33. How does the political landscape in Israel impact the conflict?	The political landscape in Israel, with shifting coalitions and varying approaches to the conflict, influences the government’s policies and negotiating positions. The rise of right-wing parties and settlement expansion have further complicated peace efforts.
34. How does the leadership of the Palestinian Authority affect the conflict?	The leadership of the Palestinian Authority, with its limited authority and internal divisions, faces challenges in representing the Palestinian people and negotiating a lasting peace agreement. The lack of elections and political infighting further weaken its legitimacy and effectiveness.
35. What are the long-term environmental consequences of the conflict?	The conflict has significant environmental consequences, including water scarcity, pollution, and damage to ecosystems. The destruction of infrastructure, the disruption of agricultural activities, and the lack of environmental protection exacerbate these challenges.
36. What are the psychological impacts of the conflict on both Israelis and Palestinians?	Both Israelis and Palestinians experience significant psychological impacts from the conflict, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The ongoing violence, insecurity, and political instability take a toll on mental health and well-being.
37. What is the role of religion in shaping public opinion about the conflict?	Religion plays a significant role in shaping public opinion about the conflict, with religious beliefs and affiliations influencing attitudes towards land claims, national identity, and political solutions. Religious leaders and institutions can play a role in promoting either conflict or reconciliation.
38. How do historical narratives influence the understanding of the conflict?	Historical narratives shape the understanding of the conflict, with both Israelis and Palestinians presenting their own versions of history, emphasizing different events and perspectives. These competing narratives contribute to mutual distrust and complicate efforts to find common ground.
39. What is the role of education in perpetuating or mitigating the conflict?	Education can play a role in either perpetuating or mitigating the conflict, depending on how it portrays the other side and whether it promotes empathy and critical thinking. Curricula that demonize the other side or deny their history contribute to division, while those that promote understanding and respect can help build bridges.
40. What is the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and what are some possible scenarios?	The future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is uncertain, with several possible scenarios, including a two-state solution, a one-state solution, continued occupation, or further escalation of violence. The outcome will depend on the willingness of both sides to compromise, the role of international actors, and the political dynamics within each society.

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