Israel Palestine conflict explained: a comprehensive historical analysis
As Gaza faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in 2025, understanding the historical roots is more critical than ever.
A century of conflict
Over 470,000 face starvation. Nearly 2.3 million displaced. The latest chapter in a century-long struggle, triggered by the October 7, 2023 attack and its aftermath.
Gaza 2025: unprecedented devastation
A prolonged territorial and political dispute. Both Israelis and Palestinians assert historical, religious, and national claims to the same land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea.
Land, sovereignty, rights
The land holds profound religious significance. Ottoman rule preceded the late 19th-century rise of Zionism (seeking a Jewish homeland) and Arab nationalism, leading to competing aspirations.
Seeds of conflict
The 1917 Balfour Declaration supported a "Jewish national home" in Palestine. The British Mandate (1920-1948) saw increased Jewish immigration and growing Arab opposition.
Promises & tensions
Israel declared independence. Arab states invaded. For Israelis, a war of independence. For Palestinians, the "Nakba" (Catastrophe) – over 750,000 displaced, creating an enduring refugee crisis.
1948: A nation born, a people displaced
Israel occupied the West Bank, Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem, and Golan Heights. This began the long-standing military occupation and introduced the "land for peace" principle.
Six days that changed everything
Hope emerged with accords like Camp David (1978) and Oslo (1993). However, challenges, the Second Intifada (2000), Gaza disengagement (2005), and Hamas's rise led to continued conflict.
Elusive peace
Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack killed over 1,200 Israelis with 252 taken hostage. Israel's ensuing military operation has resulted in over 53,000 Palestinian deaths and a catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Oct 7 & the Gaza War: unfathomable loss
Key obstacles to peace include:- Borders: Based on 1967 lines?- Jerusalem: Shared or divided capital?- Refugees: Right of return?- Security: For both Israelis and Palestinians?- Settlements: Impact on a two-state solution.
The toughest hurdles
US policy shifts (e.g., Jerusalem embassy move) and the Abraham Accords (Arab nations normalizing ties with Israel) have altered regional dynamics, but the core Palestinian issue remains unresolved.
New alliances, old wounds
The conflict's human toll is staggering. Understanding competing narratives, international law, and genuine dialogue are vital. Sustainable peace demands justice, security, and dignity for all.