Volume XIII – Number 1
Bernard Reich
Abstract: Israel’s peace policy relies mainly on diplomatic negotiations with its Arab neighbors. However, in the absence of possible negotiations, Israel has sought military action, as well as international support for its positions. They define peace as occurring once war has ended and normal intercourse has been established between all Arab states and Israel. The main obstacles to this peace can be seen in the Palestinian conflict, and Arab-Israeli border disputes. The Palestinian conflict is an incredibly complex situation and revolves around the establishment of a Palestinian state. Borders and territorial problems have emerged since Israel’s victory in the Six Day War, as they have refused to return any territory that they gained in that conflict. The position Israel takes, that they feel would best allow for their definition of peace, includes three main points. First, there should be no independent Palestinian state consisting of both territories in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and they will not negotiated with the PLO. Second, the main obstacles to peace come from the Arab world, as they are unable to compromise. And third, the conflict is likely to be elongated until these Arab states work to compromise with the Israelis.
Key Words: Israel, Palestine, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, Six Day War, West Bank, Gaza Strip, Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO)
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