The tragedy of Palestine
A History
The violence that is – again – escalating in this troubled region is weighting heavy on my heart lately.
To get a understanding of the history and root-causes of this conflict, i did read a lot of Wikipedia.com pages and other dedicated websites. Also articles from magazines and such.
From all my notes and links i used the ChatGPT application to make easy to digest summaries to boil down this convoluted history in some way that makes sense to me.
At least my kind of sense ; )
My idea has been to write this “history” as a lighthearted story on the surface, inject some humor and storytelling to it.
But underneath I tried to share a lot of the information that i found helpful to create a overall “high resolution” picture.
If you are interested you will find this information by clicking those little downward arrows in the text.
Once upon a time
there was not yet
a place
called Palestine
Just a barren land
a lot of stones
a lot of dust
by the sea
And far away from that
in the city of Ur
lived a guy
with the name of Abram
This was a time, so the story goes,
when God himself spoke to the people
at least to some of them
and this Abrim guy was one of those
The Chosen One
And so He says to Abram,
who is also known as Abraham,
He says:
Go! Leave everything behind!
“Leave your country, your people and your father’s
household and go to the land I will show you.
I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you;
I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you
I will curse;
and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
Trust me, just go!
And I will guide you
to the land of Canaan
to the Promised Land
And so Abraham, the good man that he is, he goes
Abraham is considered the patriarch of the Jewish people and the father of the Abrahamic religions, he is a revered figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
According to the Bible, Abraham was born in Ur, a city in Mesopotamia, around 2000 BC (aka BCE, aka Before Christ).
He was called by God to leave his homeland and journey to an unknown land, which he later learned was Canaan.
Although he was supposedly already 75 years old, Abraham obeyed God’s call and set out on a journey with his wife Sarah and his nephew Lot.
And it was quite a trip to get there, the Promised Land was far away ; )
Abraham and Sarah eventually settled in Canaan, where they lived as nomads, tending their flocks of sheep and goats.
Because Sarah could not bear children, they had no children of their own.
But God promised Abraham that he would have a son who would become the father of a great nation.
And when Sarah was well past childbearing age, she miraculously gave birth to a son, Isaac.
Abraham’s faith in God was tested many times throughout his life.
He was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac at God’s command, but God intervened and provided a ram as a substitute.
Abraham also had to deal with the jealousy of his half-sister Sarah and his concubine Hagar, who both bore him sons later on.
Despite the challenges he faced, Abraham remained faithful to God.
He is considered one of the most important figures in the history of religion, and his story continues to inspire people of faith all over the world.
~~~
Abraham is the foundational figure in several major Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Each of these religions considers Abraham as a key patriarch and a central figure in their religious context:
In Judaism, Abraham is considered the father of the Jewish people. The covenant or contract that God made with Abraham, as described in the Book of Genesis, includes promises of numerous descendants, a special land (Canaan), and the establishment of a great nation.
Abraham is also an important figure in Christianity. He is often referred to as the “father of faith” because of his trust and obedience to God.
The New Testament in the Christian Bible frequently references Abraham, emphasizing the connection between the Old and New Testaments.
In Islam, Abraham is known as “Ibrahim,” and he is considered a prophet and a friend of God. He is mentioned in multiple chapters of the Quran.
According to Islamic tradition, Ibrahim played a crucial role in the construction of the Kaaba in Mecca, a central sanctuary in Islam. The annual pilgrimage (Hajj) involves rituals that commemorate events associated with Ibrahim and his family.
The story of Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, which aligns with the biblical narrative of the Akedah, is also present in Islamic tradition.
And so the story unfolds
Check it out here, its quite a bit convoluted and confused.
By the fog of times-long-ago, by the inaccuracies
of Biblical writing ; )
The short version is, that he – Abraham, already seventy-five years old – he got onto the road to the Promised Land
Just he and his wife and his nephew Job
And it was a treacherous journey
But quite a lot of folks along the way
they followed him
because he was a good man
this Abraham
And the promise of The Promised land was beaconing!
And finally – it is said – that they all made it and they settled their tents in the dusty fields of Canaan
Old that they were, Abraham and his wife, they had no offspring.
In Canaan, God made a secret covenant, a contract and agreement with Abraham, promising him numerous descendants and the land of Canaan as an inheritance.
Genesis 12:7 states, “Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, ‘To your offspring I will give this land.’“
God reiterated these promises in subsequent encounters with Abraham, including the covenant of circumcision as a sign of the agreement.
But God had already promised him one son and many a descendants to found a nation
And so Sarah – miraculously – bore him a son, which they named Isaac.
Wait! Wait, you may say! Not so fast!
When Abraham came to Canaan with all those followers ……
Who were the natives of Canaan, who was already living there, “.
And what did they think about this newcomers who moved into their neighborhood?
The Canaanites were Semitic, belonging to the larger Semitic language group that includes various ancient and modern languages such as Hebrew, Phoenician, Aramaic, and Arabic.
The Canaanites were a diverse group, and there were different city-states with their own rulers, cultures, and practices within the broader Canaanite civilization. The Canaanites played a significant role in trade and cultural exchange in the region.
The term “Arab” in biblical times referred to various Semitic-speaking people living in the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding regions. The Arabian tribes were often loosely affiliated and engaged in trade, conflict, and alliances. The Nabateans-Arabs were known for their sophisticated city of Petra and their involvement in trade.
The term “Bedouin” refers to traditionally nomadic Arab people, characterized by their pastoral lifestyle, dependence on herding, and a mobile way of life. They are known for living in tents and moving with their livestock in search of grazing lands.
In biblical times, there were nomadic groups in the broader region, including the Arabian Peninsula and the surrounding areas, who lived a lifestyle similar to what we now associate with Bedouins.
Nomadic or semi-nomadic groups were present in the region of Canaan, interacting with settled populations and often playing roles in trade, warfare, or pastoral activities.
It was not an easy time there for Abraham and his tribe.
Life was hard and there was nothing much to eat.
Just faith and trusting Gods whisperings
~~~
Now, since those days many-a-song have been written
many long poems too
of Abraham and his far-traveling offspring
the Origin Stories of the Twelve Tribes of Israel
And why they consider themselves
The Chosen Ones
[ I hope dear reader you’ll forgive me to tell the whole long tale of these folks. I just really wanted to find out where the Jewish people originated and how they came to populate ( and re-populate and then again ….) the lands of Palestine.
Of course they were not called Jews in those olden days, the word has only been invented much later along the way]
This whole story of them, its all about faith, obviously
trusting The Word
following no matter what
even when that may mean to kill your own son
(Oh – sorry – i forgot to mention that one day God decided to test Abraham.
So he ordered the poor man to sacrifice and kill his firstborn and only son, this young Isaac boy.)
But fortunately for Isaac (the son) an Angel of God intervenes and stops the madman Abraham (the father) from killing the poor and utterly innocent kid.
And Abraham decides to kill and sacrifice a goat instead. Something has to be sacrificed to appease God, right?
Those were the days!!!
Maybe this is where the he word scapegoat comes from.
The proverbial Scapegoat ; D
Good to blame for anything and everything.
~~~
So Isaac was lucky to live on to fulfill his destiny and grew into a good man and had a son himself
Who’s name was Jacob.
This Jacob – was also has been called Israel – himself had 12 Sons who later on became the founders of The 12 Tribes of Israel.
Obviously, old Abraham had a lot of offspring to enjoy, just as God had promised and predicted early on.
But a great famine came to the Promised Land and the whole big tribe decided to travel to the Sinai, to Egypt in search for a easier life and food to eat.
They settled in Egypt and prospered there and multiplied over the years.
Unfortunately old Abraham got into trouble with the Pharaoh and most of his people were enslaved by the Egyptians for many years
Again God intervened and the Old Testament recounts the story of Moses leading the people out of slavery in Egypt, an event known as the Exodus.
They journeyed through the wilderness for 40 years, received the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai, and were organized into a cohesive community.
And then they entered Canaan again, their Promised Land.
Not everybody living there was especially happy to see them, so they had to fight their way in.
The conquest of Canaan is detailed in the Book of Joshua, as the Israelites, led by Joshua, crossed the Jordan River and conquered various cities and territories there.
The land was divided among the 12 Tribes.
Many years went by and generations and again they prospered.
Until the Assyrians and Babylonian Empires invaded and the tribes were forced into exile once more.
After the Babylonian exile, only some of the Israelites returned to the land, and the Second Temple was eventually built.
The tribes, however, did not fully reconstitute themselves in the same way as during the biblical period.
The Israelites have now become dispersed all over the Middle East and the wider Continent over time.
What once has been a strong and coherent tribal identity before, slowly morphed into the Jewish identity.
and Jewish Religion appear?
The terms “Jew” and “Jewish” have historical and linguistic origins that evolved over time. The use of these terms is associated with the development of the Jewish people and their religious identity.
The term “Jew” did not exist during the earliest periods covered by the Old Testament. In the biblical narratives, individuals were identified by their tribal or regional affiliations (e.g., Israelites, Judahites).
The term “Judaism” did not exist as a label for the religion; instead, it was the faith of the Israelites, and religious practices were centered around the covenant/special contract with God as described in the Hebrew Bible.
The use of the term “Jew” becomes more evident during and after the Babylonian exile (6th century BC). The exile played a role in shaping a more distinct religious and cultural identity among the people of Judah .
The term “Judaism” began to emerge to describe the religious practices and beliefs associated with the people of Judah.
After the return from exile, the term “Jews” became more commonly used to refer to the people of Judah and the broader Israelite community.
This period saw the development of religious texts, such as the Torah and other writings, that became central to the identity of the Jewish people.
In the Hellenistic and Roman periods, the term “Jew” continued to be used to denote the people associated with the religious and cultural practices centered around the Second Temple in Jerusalem.
The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AC by the Romans marked a significant event in Jewish history, leading to the dispersion of Jewish communities.
The Jewish diaspora, or dispersion, led to the development of various Jewish communities outside of the land of Israel. During this period, the term “Jewish” continued to be used to describe the people who adhered to the religious and cultural traditions associated with Judaism.
The emergence of rabbinic Judaism, with the compilation of the Mishnah and later the Talmud, contributed to the codification of Jewish religious practices.
Today, the terms “Jew” and “Jewish” are widely accepted and recognized globally, representing both a religious affiliation and, for many, an ethnic and cultural identity. The history and development of these terms reflect the complex and multifaceted nature of the Jewish people and their rich heritage.
Old Abraham would have turned in his grave had he know what happened to his 12 Tribes of Israel, the by-God-predicted Promised Land and the rest 😥
Unfortunately life did not go that way and His Chosen People over time became dispersed all over the world.
They became to known as the Jewish Diaspora.
in Medieval and Modern Times
The Jewish diaspora refers to the dispersion of the Jewish people from their ancestral homeland. Throughout medieval and modern times, the Jewish diaspora has been marked by various tribulations, challenges, and triumphs.
Medieval Period:
Expulsions and Persecutions:
Spain (1492): One of the most significant events was the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492.
Many Jews faced the choice of conversion, expulsion, or death.
Expulsions in Europe: Jews were expelled from various European countries, including England (1290), France (14th and 15th centuries), and other regions.
Blood Libels and Pogroms:
Blood Libels: False accusations, such as the blood libel, where Jews were accused of using the blood of Christian children in religious rituals, led to persecution and violence.
Pogroms: Organized, violent attacks on Jewish communities occurred in Eastern Europe, notably during times of social or economic unrest.
Cultural Achievements:
Despite adversity, Jewish communities in the medieval period made significant cultural, intellectual, and economic contributions, particularly in Islamic Spain and later in various European centers.
Early Modern Period:
The Ottoman Empire:
Jews found relative tolerance and safety within the Ottoman Empire, where they could engage in commerce, scholarship, and communal life.
Ghettoization:
In some European cities, Jews were confined to ghettos, isolated and subjected to restrictive living conditions.
Enlightenment and Modern Period:
Emancipation and Integration:
The Enlightenment brought about the idea of religious tolerance and civic equality, leading to the emancipation of Jews in some European countries.
Jews began to integrate into broader society, contributing to various fields, including arts, sciences, and commerce.
Anti-Semitism and Nationalism:
Rise of Anti-Semitism: Despite progress, anti-Semitism persisted and, in some cases, intensified with the rise of nationalist movements.
World Wars and Holocaust:
The 20th century witnessed unprecedented challenges, including the Holocaust during World War II, where six million Jews were systematically murdered by the Nazis.
Post-World War II:
Establishment of Israel:
The aftermath of World War II saw the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, providing a homeland for many Jewish survivors of the Holocaust and others.
Arab-Israeli Conflicts:
The creation of Israel led to conflicts with neighboring Arab states, resulting in a series of wars and ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Soviet Jewry:
The Cold War era saw restrictions on Jewish religious practices and emigration in the Soviet Union. The movement for Soviet Jewry sought to address these challenges.
Contemporary Challenges:
Modern times have seen ongoing challenges, including anti-Semitism, tensions in the Middle East, and debates over Israel’s policies.
Throughout these tribulations, Jewish communities have demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and the ability to contribute to various societies despite historical adversity.
The story of the Jewish diaspora is complex, marked by both hardships and cultural, intellectual, and economic achievements.
But – astonishingly – it seems the Jewish people never really abandoned the dream of The Promised Land,
“God’s promise” of a nation.
The dream of returning to this dusty land there on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea.
In the late 19. Century the Zionist movement emerged with the goal of establishing a national homeland for the Jewish people.
This movement sought to address the challenges facing Jewish communities in Europe and to create a secure and autonomous homeland in Palestine.
The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 is directly linked to the Zionist movement’s efforts and activities.
During World War I, the British government sought support from various groups for the Allied war effort. And one of those influential groups were they Zionists who probably saw a chance to fulfill their dream of The Return.
After World War I, the League of Nations granted Britain the mandate to administer the territory, and the name “Palestine” was officially used for the British Mandate for Palestine, which lasted from 1920 to 1948.
and what lands does it designate?
The term “Palestine” has a long historical and linguistic background. Its origin can be traced back to ancient times, and its usage has evolved over the centuries. The name “Palestine” is associated with the historical region that has been home to various peoples and cultures.
The Romans, after the conquest of the region, used the name “Provincia Syria Palaestina” to designate the area.
During the Ottoman Empire’s rule, the region was part of the Ottoman province of Syria. The name “Palestine” continued to be used in some contexts, including by European travelers and diplomats.
After World War I, the League of Nations granted Britain the mandate to administer the territory, and the name “Palestine” was officially used for the British Mandate for Palestine, which lasted from 1920 to 1948.
After the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the use and meaning of the term “Palestine” became politically charged.
For many Palestinians, “Palestine” refers to the land they see as their historical homeland, and it remains a symbol of national identity.
Today, the term “Palestine” is commonly used to refer to the geographic region that includes Israel and the Palestinian territories – the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The usual sad story happened after the war, when the winners came together and “divided the spoils of war” amongst themselves.
Without consulting the actual people who lived on the ground, without asking their opinion.
And this had grave consequences for the people of the Middle East.
The Balfour Declaration in 1917 and the subsequent establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 have been mayor upheavals to the area of Palestine and the wider Middle East.
Background:
During World War I, the British government sought the support from various groups for the Allied war effort. One such group was the Zionist movement, which aimed to establish a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine.
On November 2, 1917, British Foreign Secretary Arthur Balfour sent a letter to Walter Rothschild, a prominent leader of the British Jewish community and a supporter of the Zionist cause. This letter, known as the Balfour Declaration, expressed the British government’s support for the establishment of a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine.
The key passage of the Balfour Declaration stated: “His Majesty’s Government views with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object.
It being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.”
After World War I, the League of Nations granted Britain the mandate to administer Palestine, which included implementing the Balfour Declaration. This period witnessed an influx of Jewish immigrants to Palestine.
Arab Opposition:
The Zionist project and the influx of Jewish immigrants led to tensions with the Arab population, who opposed the establishment of a Jewish national home. This conflict set the stage for subsequent developments.
United Nations Partition Plan (1947):
As British rule in Palestine became increasingly untenable, the United Nations proposed a partition plan in 1947 that would divide Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city. The Jewish leadership accepted the plan, but the Arab leadership rejected it.
Declaration of the State of Israel (1948):
On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel.
The declaration came on the eve of the expiration of the British Mandate.
Arab-Israeli War (1948-1949):
The declaration was followed by the Arab-Israeli War, as neighboring Arab states intervened to oppose the establishment of Israel. The war resulted in significant changes to the borders of the newly declared state.
Recognition and Independence:
Despite the challenges and conflicts, Israel secured recognition from several countries, including the United States and the Soviet Union.
The establishment of the State of Israel marked a turning point in the region’s history.
Because of the promises that the British Government made in the Belfort Declaration, more and more Jewish people migrated to Palestine.
They settled in with other Jewish folks who were natives there since Biblical times and there has been acceptance between Jews and Arab people at first.
But as more Jews arrived, tensions flared.
Because of the Holocaust during WWII, the floodgates of Jewish emigration opened.
The United Nations proposed a partition plan in 1947, recommending the creation of separate Jewish and Arab states in Palestine.
Which was rejected by the Arabs.
1948 the State of Israel was established – against the will of the Arab people.
What followed was the forceful displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, known as the Nakba.
Which is Arabic for “catastrophe“.
Al-Nakba: The Palestinian catastrophe – Episode 3 – Docu
It was the pivotal and deeply traumatic event in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
It resulted in the forced expulsion and flight of a significant portion of the Palestinian Arab population from their homes and the creation of a large refugee population.
The United Nations proposed a partition plan in 1947, recommending the creation of separate Jewish and Arab states in Palestine.
While Jewish leaders accepted the plan, Arab leaders rejected it, viewing it as unjust and an infringement on the rights of the Arab majority.
Declaration of the State of Israel (1948):
On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel.
The declaration was followed by the invasion of neighboring Arab states, leading to the Arab-Israeli War.
The Arab-Israeli War (1948-1949) resulted in widespread violence, with both Jewish and Arab militias engaging in combat.
Many Palestinian Arab communities found themselves caught in the crossfire.
Some Palestinian communities were directly expelled by Israeli forces, while others fled due to fear of violence, uncertainty about the future, or direct orders from Arab leaders.
Incidents of violence, massacres, and atrocities occurred on both sides during the conflict, contributing to the displacement of civilians.
It is widely acknowledged that hundreds of thousands of Palestinians became refugees. Estimates ranging from 700,000 to over a million.
Many Palestinian villages and towns were depopulated and, in some cases, destroyed or repopulated by Jewish immigrants.
Consequences and Legacy:
Creation of Palestinian Refugee Issue:
The displacement of Palestinians resulted in the creation of a significant and enduring refugee population.
Many Palestinians sought refuge in neighboring Arab countries, while others lived in temporary camps.
Loss of Homes and Property:
Palestinians who were displaced lost their homes, lands, and personal belongings.
The loss of property and the inability to return became central issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Impact on Palestinian Identity:
The Nakba had a profound impact on Palestinian identity, shaping the collective memory and narratives of Palestinians.
The memory of the Nakba remains a central element in Palestinian national consciousness.
Ongoing Refugee Issue:
The issue of Palestinian refugees and their right of return remains a key point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Resolving the refugee issue is one of the central challenges in achieving a comprehensive and just peace settlement.
After the – unilateral – Establishment of the Nation of Israel, the neighboring Arab states send in their Armies, marking the beginning of the 1948-1949 Arab-Israeli War.
Palestinians were stuck in the crossfire and many died.
In the end, the partition of Palestine, the establishment of the West Bank and Gaza Strip occurred.
The establishment of the West Bank and Gaza Strip as distinct territories with different political dynamics occurred as a result of the Arab-Israeli War of 1948-1949, the armistice agreements that followed, and subsequent geopolitical developments.
Territorial Changes and Armistice Agreements:
During the war, territorial changes occurred, with Israel gaining control of areas beyond the proposed borders of the Jewish state. As the conflict reached a ceasefire, a series of armistice agreements were negotiated between Israel and its neighboring Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.
West Bank:
Jordanian Control:
At the end of the Arab-Israeli War, the West Bank came under Jordanian control as a result of the armistice agreement between Jordan and Israel in 1949. Jordan annexed the West Bank in 1950, a move that was not internationally recognized.
Jordanian Administration (1950-1967):
During the period of Jordanian administration, the West Bank experienced political, economic, and social changes. It was integrated into the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, but the annexation was not widely accepted, and the Palestinian population retained a distinct identity.
Gaza Strip:
Egyptian Control:
The Gaza Strip came under Egyptian control as a result of the armistice agreement between Egypt and Israel in 1949.
Egyptian Administration (1949-1967):
Similar to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip was administered by Egypt. However, unlike Jordan’s annexation of the West Bank, Egypt did not formally annex the Gaza Strip.
The area was governed by Egyptian military administration.
Post-1967 Developments:
Six-Day War (1967):
The political landscape of the West Bank and Gaza Strip changed significantly during the Six-Day War in 1967.
Israel captured these territories, along with the Sinai Peninsula and the Golan Heights, in a swift military campaign.
Occupation and Settlements:
Following the war, Israel began occupying the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The establishment of Israeli settlements in these territories has been a source of ongoing controversy and a major point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Palestinian Authority (1990s):
In the 1990s, the Oslo Accords were signed between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).
The accords aimed to establish a framework for a negotiated settlement leading to the eventual establishment of a Palestinian state.
The Palestinian Authority was established to govern parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Hamas Control of Gaza:
In 2007, the Palestinian political landscape experienced a significant shift when the militant group Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip, leading to a political and territorial division between the West Bank and Gaza.
The West Bank and Gaza Strip have since remained distinct territories with different political entities, and their status remains a central issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The question of borders, sovereignty, and the political future of these territories continues to be a subject of international concern and diplomatic efforts.
All those traumatic developments set off a never ending cycle of violence and retaliation from both sides that has not ended to this very day.
On the contrary, it seems that every brutality from one side is immediately answered with escalating violence from the opponents.
On the side of the Palestinian population, the injustice, displacement and enforced ghetto existence with no future prospects led to increasing extremism, especially with young males.
Extremist groups developed in this climate with no shortage of angry and disfranchised youth ready for action.
and the development of Palestinian Extremist Groups and Terror operations
The Palestinian resistance to the Israeli occupation has taken various forms over the years, including both non-violent and violent methods. The struggle for Palestinian self-determination and opposition to Israeli policies has involved a complex interplay of political, social, and historical factors.
Early Resistance (1948-1967):
Arab-Israeli War (1948-1949):
The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. During this period, armed resistance groups, both Palestinian and from neighboring Arab countries, engaged in military actions against Israel.
Fedayeen Attacks:
Fedayeen groups, meaning “self-sacrificers,” carried out cross-border attacks against Israeli military and civilian targets in the 1950s and early 1960s. These groups aimed to resist Israeli occupation and reclaim Palestinian lands.
PLO and Armed Struggle:
The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), established in 1964, became a key player in Palestinian resistance. Under the leadership of Yasser Arafat, the PLO adopted armed struggle as a method to achieve Palestinian national goals.
First Intifada (1987-1993):
The First Intifada, a largely grassroots uprising, began in 1987. It involved mass protests, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience against the Israeli occupation. The Intifada showcased Palestinian resilience and garnered international attention.
Oslo Accords (1993):
The Oslo Accords were signed between Israel and the PLO in 1993, leading to limited self-rule for Palestinians in parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. However, the accords did not address fundamental issues like the status of Jerusalem and the right of return for Palestinian refugees.
Second Intifada (2000-2005):
The Second Intifada, characterized by increased violence and terrorism, erupted in 2000. Suicide bombings, shootings, and other attacks became more prevalent, leading to a significant loss of life on both sides.
Rise of Extremist Groups:
Hamas:
Hamas, an Islamist organization, emerged in the late 1980s as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood.
Initially focused on social services, it later became a major player in Palestinian politics and engaged in armed resistance against Israel.
In 2006, Hamas won legislative elections in Gaza, leading to tensions with the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority.
Islamic Jihad and Other Groups:
Other Palestinian factions, such as Palestinian Islamic Jihad, also engaged in armed resistance against Israeli forces. These groups often employed tactics labeled as terrorism, including suicide bombings and rocket attacks.
Contemporary Challenges:
Gaza Strip and Hamas Rule:
Following Israel’s withdrawal from the Gaza Strip in 2005, Hamas took control of the territory in 2007 after internal conflicts with Fatah. The political division between Hamas in Gaza and Fatah in the West Bank has complicated efforts to achieve Palestinian unity.
Security Barrier and Settlements:
Israel’s construction of a security barrier in the West Bank and the expansion of settlements have been contentious issues, contributing to tensions and resistance.
International Responses:
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has drawn widespread international attention and efforts to mediate a peaceful resolution.
However, a comprehensive and lasting solution remains elusive, with political, territorial, and identity issues at the core of the dispute.
Which all too often meant horrible Terror attacks.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has involved various acts of violence and terrorism over the years, carried out by different groups on both sides.
It’s important to realize that the actions of specific individuals or groups do not represent the entire Palestinian population, and there are different perspectives within Palestinian society.
The 1972 Munich Olympic terrorist attack, also known as the Munich Massacre, occurred during the Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany. It was a tragic event that involved the kidnapping and subsequent killing of 11 Israeli athletes by a Palestinian terrorist group Black September, a splinter faction of the Palestinian group Fatah
Entebbe Hijacking (1976):
Two members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – External Operations (PFLP-EO) and two members of the German Revolutionary Cells.
The hijacking of an Air France plane en route from Tel Aviv to Paris. The plane was diverted to Entebbe, Uganda. Israeli commandos later conducted a daring rescue operation to free the hostages.
Coastal Road Massacre (1978):
PLO factions, including Fatah and the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP).
A group of Palestinian terrorists landed on the Israeli coast and hijacked a bus on the Coastal Road. They killed 38 civilians, including 13 children, and wounded many others.
Bus 405 Hijacking (1986):
Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
A bus was hijacked in Israel by terrorists affiliated with Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Three passengers were killed, and several others were injured.
Dolphinarium Discotheque Bombing (2001):
Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades (linked to Fatah).
A suicide bombing at a Tel Aviv discotheque targeted Israeli teenagers. The attack resulted in the deaths of 21 people, mostly young civilians, and left over 120 others injured.
Sbarro Restaurant Suicide Bombing (2001):
Hamas.
A suicide bombing at a pizzeria in Jerusalem. Fifteen people were killed, including seven children, and around 130 were injured.
Passover Massacre (2002):
Hamas.
A suicide bombing during a Passover meal at the Park Hotel in Netanya. Thirty people were killed, and over 140 were injured.
Jerusalem Bus 19 Suicide Bombing (2004):
Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades.
A suicide bombing on Jerusalem Bus 19 killed 11 people and injured dozens.
Mercaz HaRav Shooting (2008):
Alaa Abu Dhein (linked to Fatah).
A shooting at the Mercaz HaRav yeshiva in Jerusalem. Eight students were killed, and several others were injured.
Somehow, and with a sad sad irony this represents a tragic turnaround of the David and Goliath theme.
Other than in Biblical times, Israel is now the high-tech state with advanced military and surveillance capabilities and rich and powerful friends.
And the Palestinians are …..
Well, literally often using slingshots and stones.
Israel has responded to terrorist attacks through a combination of military, intelligence, and law enforcement measures. The responses have evolved over the years, and Israel has employed various strategies to counter terrorism and ensure the security of its citizens.
Military Operations:
Operation Wrath of God (1970s):
In response to the Munich Olympic Massacre in 1972, Israel launched “Operation Wrath of God.” The covert operation aimed to track down and eliminate individuals involved in the planning and execution of the attack. It included targeted assassinations of those believed to be responsible.
Lebanese Incursions:
In the aftermath of cross-border attacks and abductions, Israel conducted military incursions into Lebanon to target Palestinian militant groups operating from there. The most notable incursion was the 1982 Lebanon War.
Gaza Operations:
In response to rocket attacks from the Gaza Strip, Israel has carried out military operations, including airstrikes and ground incursions, targeting militant infrastructure.
Targeted Killings:
Assassination Campaigns:
Israel has engaged in targeted killings of individuals considered leaders or operational figures of Palestinian militant groups. This approach aims to disrupt the command structure and capabilities of these groups.
Counterterrorism Policies:
Defensive Measures:
Israel has implemented various defensive measures to protect its citizens, including the construction of security barriers, checkpoints, and the deployment of advanced technology for surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Preventive Measures:
Israel has implemented preventive measures, such as intelligence operations and preemptive arrests, to disrupt potential terrorist activities before they can be carried out.
Legal and Diplomatic Responses:
International Cooperation:
Israel has sought international cooperation in countering terrorism, sharing intelligence and collaborating with other countries facing similar threats.
Legal Measures:
Israel has implemented legal measures to enhance its ability to counter terrorism, including legislation related to detention, prosecution, and the use of military force.
Negotiations and Peace Process:
Peace Initiatives:
Israel has engaged in peace negotiations with Palestinian leaders and participated in peace processes, aiming to address the root causes of the conflict and achieve a lasting resolution.
Diplomatic Efforts:
Israel has participated in diplomatic efforts facilitated by the international community, including negotiations aimed at reaching a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
It’s important to note that Israel’s responses to terrorism have been a subject of debate and controversy, both domestically and internationally.
Critics argue that some measures, such as targeted killings and military operations in densely populated areas, have raised human rights concerns.
Supporters argue that these actions are necessary for the security and defense of Israel in the face of persistent threats.
yyyyyyyyy
The situation in Palestine is obviously the equivalent of a pressure cooker with a lot of real people inside.
With over 2 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and 3.5 million living in the West Bank.
And on the Israeli side its 6.5 million.
Since 2007 Gaza is completely blocked and cut off by the Israeli military, It is practically a ghetto where people have no way out.
The living conditions in Gaza are among the worst in the world.
Since 2007 the Israeli blockade has severely restricted the movement of people and goods into and out of Gaza, which has led to shortages of food, medicine, and other essential goods. The blockade has also made it difficult for people to travel to work or school, and has contributed to high unemployment and poverty rates.
The economy of Gaza is heavily reliant on international aid. The Israeli blockade has made it difficult for businesses to operate and has led to a decline in economic activity. Unemployment and poverty rates are very high, and many people are struggling to make ends meet.
The West Bank is a little better off but it is still a occupied territory since 1965.
Israel has control over the territory but does not have sovereignty over it. Radical Jewish settlers continue to build settlements in the territory in an attempt to annex it.
There is a there are high level of unemployment and poverty amongst the Palestinian population.
Banksy, the British street artist was there several times and made some visuals that say it all!
The West Bank is governed by the Palestinian Authority since the early 1990s and the Gaza Strip is run by the Hamas since 2006.
Hamas, or the Islamic Resistance Movement, who now runs the Gaza Strip is a Palestinian Islamist organization with both political and militant wings.
Hamas was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation. The organization emerged as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood in the Palestinian territories.
Hamas operates based on its founding charter, which emphasizes resistance to Israeli occupation and the establishment of an Islamic state in historic Palestine.
In addition to its political and military activities, Hamas has been involved in providing social services to Palestinians, including education, healthcare, and welfare programs.
Hamas has participated in Palestinian elections. In the 2006 legislative elections, Hamas won a majority of seats in the Palestinian Legislative Council, leading to its control of the Gaza Strip.
After winning the elections, Hamas established de facto governance in the Gaza Strip, leading to political divisions between Gaza and the West Bank.
The military wing of Hamas is known as the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades. It has engaged in armed resistance against Israeli forces, including rocket attacks, suicide bombings, and other acts of violence.
Hamas has received support from various regional actors, including Iran and Qatar. Iran has provided financial and military assistance, while Qatar has also offered financial support.
Hamas has garnered support from segments of the Palestinian population, especially in the Gaza Strip. Its appeal has been based on both its resistance to Israeli occupation and its provision of social services.
Palestinian Authority who runs the West Bank
The Palestinian Authority (PA) is the interim self-government body established as part of the Oslo Accords, a series of agreements between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) in the 1990s. The PA is responsible for administering certain aspects of governance in areas of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The Oslo Accords were a set of agreements between Israel and the PLO, signed in the early 1990s. The accords outlined a framework for the gradual transfer of powers from Israeli control to a Palestinian interim government, leading to the establishment of the Palestinian Authority.
The PA was intended to be an interim self-governing body with the goal of facilitating the transition to a final status agreement between Israel and the Palestinians, addressing key issues such as borders, refugees, and the status of Jerusalem.
The President of the Palestinian Authority is the head of state. The president is also the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Mahmoud Abbas has been the president since 2005.
The Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) is the legislative body of the PA. However, it has faced challenges, including political divisions, and has not functioned effectively in recent years.
The PA has civil administration responsibilities, including education, health, social welfare, and infrastructure development in the areas under its control.
The PA is responsible for security coordination in areas of the West Bank where it has jurisdiction. However, Israel retains overall security control in many parts of the West Bank.
Challenges and Political Context:
There is a political division between the PA in the West Bank, led by Fatah, and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Efforts to achieve reconciliation and establish a unified Palestinian government have faced challenges.
The West Bank is subject to Israeli military occupation in certain areas, and Israeli settlements continue to be a source of tension.
The peace process between Israel and the Palestinians, including negotiations for a two-state solution, has faced significant challenges, impacting the role and effectiveness of the PA.
The Oct 6..2023 Terror attack by Hamas pushed the violence and counter violence to a whole different level.
It is too painful to go into details here, but this Wikipedia article about the elaborate attack and kidnapping and murder of many innocent people, babies, the young, very old as well as soldiers is well documented.
Even more painful and consequential is the response of the Israeli Government, which declared War on Hamas, which also means war on the densely populated ghetto of the Gaza Strip.
[ Throughout my research i tried to remain impartial, not take sides, not assign blame to any group.
Just understand the bigger picture of the history of this conflict.
But now I am deeply disturbed by the brutality of those terrorists.
And i have to admit that i am completely and totally appalled by the response of the Israeli Military Machine and the Netanyahu Government out for bloody revanche.
Its a thousand eyes for every eye taken.
Its a relentless bombing of a imprisoned population that has nowhere to go.
It is a siege and starvation of a civilian people that may have nothing to do with Hamas.
It is a war that will breed more and more violent extremism in the region.
And maybe even totally destabilize the Middle East.
And i think it will diminish a lot of the international standing and partnership that Israel has enjoyed for so long.]
If good old Abraham, the Patriarch of the Jewish People would have to see all that, what would he say?
I guess he would say:
“Oh God, what have you done?”
“Why did you send me away from Ur in the first place,
if this is what’s coming of it?”
Probably, this would be his words.
And I guess, this time God would just be quiet.
[ Uff! Woah!
It has been quite some work and effort to sift thru all this history of upheaval, drama, struggle, suffering, injustice, hope and all.
And make a – somewhat – coherent picture of this troubled land and its conflicting inhabitants.
I am not a history buff, never been much interested in historic facts.
But i am glad i did it
Mostly because it gave me – for the first time in my life – a glimpse of an understanding of the Arab as well as the Jewish peoples and cultures.
Which has always felt pretty alien to me.
For that understanding and the resulting compassion
i am grateful! ]
Dear reader, if you have made it till here:
Thank you for reading!
Thank you for hangin’ in with me!
