West Bank

Definition

The West Bank is a landlocked territory located in the Middle East, bordered by Israel to the west and Jordan to the east. It holds significant importance in the context of Zionism and the Arab-Israeli conflict, as it is home to a large Palestinian population and has been a focal point of territorial disputes between Israelis and Palestinians since the mid-20th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The West Bank was captured by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War and has since been subject to Israeli military administration.
2. Approximately 2.5 million Palestinians live in the West Bank, making it a critical area for Palestinian national identity and aspirations for statehood.
3. The region contains significant historical and religious sites important to both Jews and Muslims, such as Hebron and Bethlehem.
4. Tensions in the West Bank often arise from Israeli settlement expansion, which many in the international community view as illegal under international law.
5. The Oslo Accords established the Palestinian Authority, granting limited self-governance in parts of the West Bank but failing to resolve key issues like borders, refugees, and the status of Jerusalem.

Review Questions

• How has the West Bank shaped the relationship between Israelis and Palestinians over time?
  • The West Bank has been central to Israeli-Palestinian relations, particularly since its capture by Israel in 1967. It has become a symbol of Palestinian national aspirations, while also being a site of ongoing territorial disputes due to Israeli settlements. The presence of both populations in this contested area has led to repeated clashes and negotiations, reflecting broader themes of identity, sovereignty, and conflict that characterize their relationship.
• Discuss the impact of Israeli settlements in the West Bank on Palestinian communities.
  • Israeli settlements in the West Bank have had a profound impact on Palestinian communities, often leading to land confiscations, restrictions on movement, and increased tensions. Many Palestinians view these settlements as a direct threat to their claim for statehood and their way of life. The growth of settlements has created fragmented Palestinian territories, complicating efforts for a viable contiguous state and further fueling animosity between the two groups.
• Evaluate how international responses to the situation in the West Bank have evolved since 1967.
  • International responses to the situation in the West Bank have evolved significantly since 1967. Initially characterized by widespread support for Israel following its military victory, over time there has been increasing criticism of Israeli policies regarding settlements and military governance. The rise of Palestinian nationalism has prompted many countries and organizations to advocate for a two-state solution, highlighting the need for negotiations while also recognizing Palestinian rights. However, geopolitical interests continue to complicate unified international action toward achieving lasting peace in the region.

Related terms

Zionism: A nationalist movement that emerged in the late 19th century, advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine, which led to significant Jewish immigration and settlement in the region.

Israeli Settlements: Communities established by Israel within territories occupied during the 1967 Six-Day War, including the West Bank, often leading to controversy and conflict with Palestinian residents.

Oslo Accords: A series of agreements between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) during the 1990s aimed at achieving peace and addressing issues such as territorial governance and mutual recognition.