Israel-Palestine Wall

Definition

The Israel-Palestine Wall, often referred to as the separation barrier or security fence, is a series of fences and walls built by Israel, primarily in the West Bank, to separate Israeli citizens from Palestinian territories. This wall has significant implications for political power and territoriality, as it reflects Israel's efforts to assert control over disputed areas while addressing security concerns related to conflict and violence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The construction of the Israel-Palestine Wall began in 2002 during the Second Intifada, with the stated goal of preventing terrorist attacks against Israeli citizens.
2. The wall stretches over 700 kilometers and includes a mix of concrete walls and chain-link fences, along with checkpoints and watchtowers.
3. Many Palestinians view the wall as a land grab, as its route often deviates from the Green Line and cuts through Palestinian territories, impacting their access to resources and mobility.
4. The International Court of Justice issued an advisory opinion in 2004 stating that the construction of the wall was contrary to international law and called for its dismantling.
5. The wall has become a symbol of division and has complicated peace negotiations, as it raises questions about borders, sovereignty, and the feasibility of a two-state solution.

Review Questions

• How does the construction of the Israel-Palestine Wall influence the political power dynamics between Israelis and Palestinians?
  • The construction of the Israel-Palestine Wall significantly impacts political power dynamics by creating physical barriers that alter territorial control and access. By asserting control over land through the wall's route, Israel strengthens its claim to disputed territories while limiting Palestinian movement and access to resources. This situation fosters a power imbalance, as it enables Israeli authorities to dictate terms regarding security and governance in areas predominantly inhabited by Palestinians.
• Discuss how the Israel-Palestine Wall affects territoriality in relation to the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  • The Israel-Palestine Wall serves as a clear manifestation of territoriality within the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, marking boundaries that complicate existing claims to land. Its construction often reflects Israel's intentions regarding territorial annexation while simultaneously isolating Palestinian communities. This division challenges notions of statehood for Palestinians and raises critical questions about future borders in any potential peace agreements.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Israel-Palestine Wall on the possibility of achieving a sustainable peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
  • The long-term implications of the Israel-Palestine Wall on achieving sustainable peace are complex and contentious. As it solidifies territorial divisions, it may entrench hostilities and deepen mistrust between both sides. The wall's existence complicates negotiations by establishing 'facts on the ground' that could be perceived as permanent territorial claims. Additionally, ongoing grievances stemming from restricted movement and access may fuel further conflict, making it increasingly challenging to find common ground for a peaceful resolution.

Related terms

West Bank: A landlocked territory located between Israel and Jordan, home to a large Palestinian population and a focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Two-State Solution: A proposed solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that envisions an independent State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel.

Intifada: A Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation that occurred in two major waves, significantly affecting the dynamics of the Israel-Palestine conflict.