Israel’s Gaza Reoccupation Plan

The recent approval by Israel’s Security Council for a gradual reoccupation of Gaza marks shift in the region’s dynamics. This decision comes nearly two decades after Israel’s withdrawal in 2005. The historical roots of this conflict trace back to the establishment of Israel in 1948, leading to a complex interplay of wars, treaties, and uprisings that have shaped the current situation.

The Six-Day War of 1967

The Six-Day War was a very important event in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It began on June 5, 1967, when Israel launched a pre-emptive strike against Egypt. Tensions had escalated due to Egypt’s closure of the Straits of Tiran. Israel quickly defeated Egypt, Jordan, and Syria, seizing the Gaza Strip, West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights. This war resulted in territorial changes and the beginning of Israeli military administration over these areas.

The Aftermath of the War

Following the 1967 war, Israel established settlements in the Gaza Strip. Approximately 40,000 to 45,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled during this time. The Israeli presence led to growing resentment among Palestinians, culminating in the First Intifada in 1987. This uprising was marked by widespread protests and violence, denoting the deepening conflict between Israeli forces and Palestinian civilians.

The Oslo Accords

The Oslo Accords, signed in 1993, aimed to resolve the conflict by establishing a framework for Palestinian self-determination. The accords created the Palestinian Authority to govern parts of Gaza and the West Bank. However, Hamas opposed the accords, arguing that they compromised Palestinian rights. The peace process faltered, especially with the expansion of Israeli settlements, leading to increased violence.

The Second Intifada and Withdrawal

The Second Intifada erupted in 2000, triggered by Ariel Sharon’s visit to the al-Aqsa Mosque compound. This period saw intensified violence, resulting in thousands of deaths on both sides. By 2005, Israel, led by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, unilaterally withdrew from Gaza. The withdrawal aimed to reduce military costs but left Israel in control of Gaza’s borders and airspace, maintaining influence over the territory.

Current Context

The recent decision to reoccupy Gaza reflects ongoing tensions and unresolved issues from decades of conflict. The situation remains complex, with implications for regional stability and international relations. As the dynamics evolve, the historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to play important role in shaping future developments.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the Oslo Accords on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
2. Estimate the socio-political consequences of the Six-Day War on the Arab-Israeli relations.
3. What were the main reasons for the outbreak of the Second Intifada? Discuss its effects.
4. Point out the significance of territorial control in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict post-1967.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the Oslo Accords on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

1. The Oslo Accords aimed to establish a framework for peace and Palestinian self-determination.
2. They led to the creation of the Palestinian Authority to govern parts of Gaza and the West Bank.
3. Hamas opposed the accords, arguing they compromised Palestinian rights, leading to increased violence.
4. Israeli settlement expansion during and after the accords undermined trust and progress.
5. The accords ultimately failed to resolve core issues, contributing to ongoing conflict.

2. Estimate the socio-political consequences of the Six-Day War on the Arab-Israeli relations.

1. The Six-Day War resulted in territorial changes, with Israel gaining control over the West Bank, Gaza, and Golan Heights.
2. It intensified Arab nationalism and resentment towards Israel, leading to a long-term conflict.
3. The war caused mass displacement of Palestinians, exacerbating the refugee crisis.
4. It altered the balance of power in the region, with Israel emerging as a dominant military force.
5. The war led to subsequent peace treaties, but underlying tensions remained unresolved.

3. What were the main reasons for the outbreak of the Second Intifada? Discuss its effects.

1. The Second Intifada was triggered by Ariel Sharon’s visit to the al-Aqsa Mosque, seen as provocative by Palestinians.
2. Widespread frustration over stalled peace talks and continued Israeli settlements fueled anger.
3. The uprising was marked by violence, resulting in approximately 3,000 Palestinian and 1,000 Israeli deaths.
4. It led to increased militarization and radicalization among Palestinian groups, including Hamas.
5. The Second Intifada further entrenched divisions and mistrust between Israelis and Palestinians.

4. Point out the significance of territorial control in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict post-1967.

1. Territorial control post-1967 has been a central issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, affecting sovereignty and governance.
2. Israeli settlements in occupied territories have created demographic changes and increased tensions.
3. Control over borders, airspace, and resources has allowed Israel to maintain influence over Palestinian lives.
4. The lack of a clear territorial resolution has perpetuated conflict and hindered peace negotiations.
5. Territorial disputes remain a major barrier to achieving a lasting peace agreement.