VIBGYOR MUN
WORKSHOP 2024-25
STUDY GUIDE
Study Guide
Committee – United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
Agenda - Addressing the Israel-Palestine Conflict and Its Impact
on West Asia
Table of content
Sl. No. Topic
1. Letter from the Executive Board
2. History and Roots of the Conflict
3. Wars Over Time
4. Hopeful Palestine
5. Evolving Israel
6. Significance of Jerusalem
7. Previous Resolutions
8. Current Situation
9. Impact on West Asia
10. UNSC’s role
11. Conclusion
12. QARMA
13. Bibliography and references
Letter From the Executive Board
Greetings Delegates!
The Executive Board of The Journalists’ Summit welcomes you to VIBGYOR MUN!
Congratulations on choosing a committee that thinks ahead of the world. We want to
thank you for the time and effort that you will put into this committee.
This guide will give you a brief about ‘Addressing the Israel-Palestine Conflict and Its
Impact on West Asia.’ It will also give you a head start on the solutions needed at the hour.
This committee is yours, and the decisions it makes will be yours as well.
The foremost thing we expect from you is diplomacy. Remember to have fun and, at the
same time, be the best diplomat version of yourself.
We are looking forward to a great, insightful debate!
Regards,
Executive Board,
United Nations Security Council
History and Roots of the Conflict
The Israel-Palestine conflict is a long-
standing and deeply rooted
geopolitical and territorial dispute.
To understand the present-day
ongoing brutal conflict between
Israel and Palestine, it is necessary to
understand the background of the
place and the people associated with
it. Although the present conflict has
its roots in the 20th century, a brief background of the region with respect to ancient history
will help one understand the religious and historical significance of the place, especially to
the chief stakeholders in the conflict.
Some will begin with the Romans. Others will start with the late 19th-century Jewish
migration to what was then the Ottoman Empire – to escape the pogroms and other
persecutions in Eastern Europe – and the rise of Zionism. Or the Balfour declaration by
the British government in 1917 in support of a “national home for the Jewish people” in
Palestine and the ensuing conflicts with Arab communities there.
But the starting point for many people is the United Nations’ vote in 1947 to partition
land in the British mandate of Palestine into two states – one Jewish, one Arab – following
the destruction of much of European Jewry in the Holocaust.
Generic Information on Israel:
➢ Israel today is a small country in West Asia, about the size of one of India’s
northeastern states, Meghalaya or Manipur.
➢ Israel is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to its west, Egypt to the south, Jordan
and Syria to its east, and Lebanon to the north.
➢ Israel has many sites that are of religious significance to Jews, Christians, and
Muslims alike and has a complex history.
➢ Today, the population of Israel is mostly Jewish, though there are minorities of
Christians and Muslims.
Ancient History:
The ancient history of Israel is primarily derived from the Hebrew Bible. Tracing back to
the biblical figure Abraham, considered the father of Judaism and a patriarch of Islam,
his descendants were enslaved by Egyptians before settling in Canaan. Around 1000 BCE,
King David ruled, and Solomon built the First Temple in Jerusalem in 957 BCE. By 931
BCE, the region split into Israel and Judah. In 722 BCE, the Assyrians invaded and
destroyed the northern kingdom of Israel, leading to the Ten Lost Tribes. In the 6th
century BCE, Babylonians conquered Judah, destroyed the First Temple, and exiled Jews
to Babylon. In 538 BCE, the Achaemenid Empire allowed Jews to return and rebuild the
Second Temple. In 70 CE, Romans destroyed the Second Temple after the Jewish-Roman
War, contributing to the Roman Colosseum. The Bar Kokhba Revolt in 132-136 AD led to
Hadrian expelling Jews from Jerusalem and erasing Jewish presence, renaming Judea to
Syria Palaestina. Over the centuries, the region was ruled by various powers, including
Persians, Greeks, Arabs, Crusaders, Egyptians, and Ottomans. For the next many
centuries, the region of Israel was conquered and ruled by many groups such as the
Persians, Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Fatimids, Seljuk Turks, Crusaders, Egyptians,
Mamluks, and finally the Ottomans.
Modern History:
From 1517 to 1917, the Ottoman Empire exerted dominance over West Asia, including Israel.
In the 19th century, Israel/Palestine's demographics showcased coexistence, with Muslims
at 87%, Christians at 10%, and Jews at 3%. Jerusalem mirrored this diversity. Theodor Herzl,
an Austro-Hungarian Jewish journalist, pioneered Zionism, seeking a Jewish homeland in
Palestine due to rising anti-Semitism in Europe. Despite Ottoman rule, Herzl engaged
leaders like Kaiser Wilhelm II and Sultan Abdul Hamid II, laying the groundwork for Israel's
eventual establishment.
Post-World War I, the Balfour Declaration of 1917 promised a Jewish homeland in
Palestine, a move tied to British-French secret agreements and conflicting promises to
Sharief Hussain and Arab leaders. The League of Nations granted Britain a mandate over
Palestine, fueling tensions between Jewish immigrants and Arab locals. The 1936 Arab
revolt against British rule and a 1939 white paper restricting Jewish immigration
underscored growing discontent. As WWII unfolded, illegal Jewish immigration
increased, prompting the UN to propose a 1947 partition plan. In 1948, Israel declared
independence, sparking the Arab-Israeli War, leading to territorial shifts and the Nakba,
leaving over 700,000 Palestinians as refugees. The Suez Crisis of 1956, triggered by
Egyptian President Nasser's nationalization of the Suez Canal, involved Israel, Britain,
and France.
These events, post-1948, were pivotal in the Israeli-Arab conflict. The 1949 ceasefire
redistributed territory, with the West Bank under Jordanian control and the Gaza Strip under
Egypt. Israel, despite initial aggression, gained more land than proposed by the UN.
Tensions flared in 1956 during the Suez Crisis, further entangling regional dynamics. These
events, along with the 1948 declaration and the Nakba, remain historical touchpoints in the
complex geopolitical tapestry that continues to influence the region. The intricacies of
promises, mandates, and wars have shaped the enduring Israeli- Palestinian conflict, a
narrative still unfolding against the backdrop of historical grievances and competing
national aspirations.
Territorial Disputes of Israel with Neighboring Countries:
West Bank: The West Bank is sandwiched between Israel and Jordan. One of its major
cities is Ramallah, the de facto administrative capital of Palestine. Israel took control of it
in the 1967 war and has over the years established settlements there.
Gaza: The Gaza Strip is located between Israel and Egypt. Israel occupied the strip after
1967, but relinquished control of Gaza City and day-to-day administration in most of the
territory during the Oslo peace process. In 2005, Israel unilaterally removed Jewish
settlements from the territory, though it continues to control international access to it.
Golan Heights: The Golan Heights is a strategic plateau that Israel captured from Syria
in the 1967 war. Israel effectively annexed the territory in 1981. Recently, the USA has
officially recognized Jerusalem and Golan Heights as a part of Israel.
Wars Over Time
Arab-Israeli Wars
• 1948 Arab-Israeli War (1947-1949):
The 1948 Arab-Israeli War, also known as the War of Independence in Israel and the
Nakba ("catastrophe") in Arab states, was a significant conflict that occurred immediately
after the declaration of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948. Arab states, including Egypt,
Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, rejected the UN partition plan, which proposed the
establishment of separate Jewish and Arab states in Palestine, and launched military
operations against the newly-formed Israel.
The war resulted in a series of battles fought between the Israeli armed forces and the
Arab armies and militias. It led to
significant population
displacement, with hundreds of
thousands of Palestinians fleeing
or being expelled from their
homes, creating a refugee crisis
that persists to this day.
The war ended in 1949 with the
signing of armistice agreements
between Israel and its
neighboring Arab states. These agreements established temporary borders, with Israel
gaining control over more territory than initially allotted to it by the UN partition plan.
• 1967 Six-Day War (June 5-10, 1967):
The Six-Day War was a brief but highly significant conflict fought between Israel and a
coalition of Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan, and Syria. Tensions had been escalating
in the region due to political and military provocations, including the closure of the Straits of
Tiran by Egypt, the withdrawal of UN peacekeeping forces from the Sinai Peninsula, and
mutual military buildups.
The war began on June 5, 1967, when Israel launched a preemptive strike against Egypt's air
force, followed by successful attacks against Jordanian and Syrian forces. Over the
course of six days, Israel captured the Sinai Peninsula and the Gaza Strip from Egypt, the
West Bank, and East Jerusalem from Jordan, and the Golan Heights from Syria. The war
reshaped the political landscape of the Middle East and had lasting consequences for the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Following the war, Israel began occupying these territories, leading to ongoing disputes,
settlement building, and conflicts. The Six-Day War also marked the beginning of a new
phase in the Arab-Israeli conflict, with the issue of Palestinian statehood and the status
of the occupied territories becoming central points of contention in subsequent peace
negotiations.
The Palestina Intifadas
• First Intifada (1987-1993):
The First Intifada, also known as the Palestinian uprising, was a series of protests,
demonstrations, and acts of civil disobedience against Israeli occupation in the West
Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. It began in December 1987 when a Palestinian
vehicle accidentally collided with an Israeli truck in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the death
of four Palestinians. The incident triggered widespread anger and frustration, leading to
spontaneous protests that quickly escalated into a mass uprising against Israeli rule.
During the First Intifada, Palestinians engaged in various forms of resistance, including
stone-throwing, boycotts, strikes, and grassroots organizing. The Israeli response
involved the use of military force, leading to a significant number of casualties on both
sides.
The First Intifada had a profound impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It drew
international attention to the Palestinian cause, increased global sympathy for the
Palestinian struggle, and forced Israelis and Palestinians to reconsider their approaches
to the conflict. It also paved the way for the Oslo Accords, a series of agreements signed
in the early 1990s, which established a framework for Palestinian self-government in parts
of the occupied territories.
• Second Intifada (2000-2005):
The Second Intifada, also known as the Al-Aqsa Intifada, began in September 2000 following
a visit by then-Israeli opposition leader Ariel Sharon to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, a
site sacred to both Jews and Muslims. The visit sparked widespread
Palestinian protests, which escalated into a violent conflict between Israeli security forces
and Palestinian militants.
The Second Intifada was characterized by suicide bombings, shootings, and other acts of
violence carried out by Palestinian militants against Israeli civilians and military targets.
Israel responded with military operations, targeted assassinations, and the construction
of a security barrier in the West Bank.
The conflict resulted in a high number of casualties on both sides and caused significant
social and economic disruption. Efforts to achieve peace and end the violence continued,
including international peace initiatives and peace talks, but a comprehensive resolution
remained elusive.
The Second Intifada significantly strained relations between Israelis and Palestinians,
deepening mutual mistrust and making the prospect of a lasting peace more challenging
to attain.
The Lebanon Wars
• First Lebanon War
The First Lebanon War took place from 6 June 1982 – 5 June 1985. It was an invasion by
the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) of Southern Lebanon to root out the Palestinian Liberation
Organization (PLO) operating from there. From its base in southern Lebanon, the PLO
carried out attacks on Israel, thus the invasion was to put a stop to these attacks. The war
ended in a tactical victory for Israel but was a strategic failure overall. The PLO was
expelled from Lebanon but Israel’s enemy, Syria increased its influence and occupied
Lebanon until 2005.
• Second Lebanon War
This conflict started in July 2006 between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, Golan
Heights, and Northern Israel. It ended after a couple of months through a UN-brokered
ceasefire. Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and militant group.
Hamas Wars
Emergence of Hamas in 1987: Founding of Hamas, a violent offshoot of Egypt's Muslim
Brotherhood seeking to fulfill its agenda through violent jihad.
Hamas, a Sunni Islamist militant group won the elections in Palestine in 2006. In 2007,
Hamas defeated Fatah (a political group that controlled the PLO) in 2007 in fighting that
started in 2006. Hamas (which many consider a terrorist group) has been fighting with
Israel with particularly significant battles in 2008, 2012 and 2014.
1987: Tensions in the occupied territories of West Bank and Gaza reached boiling point
resulting in the First Intifada (Palestinian Uprising). It grew into a small war between
Palestinian militants and the Israeli army.
Oslo Accords:
1993: Under the Oslo Accords Israel and the PLO agree to officially recognize each other and
renounce the use of violence. The Oslo Accords also established the Palestinian Authority,
which received limited autonomy in the Gaza Strip and parts of the West Bank.
2005: Israel begins a unilateral withdrawal of Jews from settlements in Gaza. However,
Israel kept tight control over all border crossings (blockade).
2012: UN upgrades Palestinian representation to that of a "non-member observer state".
Hopeful Palestine
Palestine is a region in the Middle East
located between the Mediterranean Sea and
the Jordan River. It has historical and
cultural significance for various peoples,
including Palestinians, Jews, and
Christians. The modern concept of Palestine
refers to the geographic area comprising the
West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem.
1. Statehood: The status of Palestine as a
state is a matter of international debate. The
State of Palestine was declared in 1988, and
it is recognized by a majority of countries
and international organizations, although it
is not a member of the United Nations. The
Palestinian Authority (PA) governs parts of
the West Bank, while the Gaza Strip is under the control of Hamas, a Palestinian political
and militant organization.
2. National Symbols: Palestine has national symbols, including a flag (black, white,
green, and red horizontal stripes) and an anthem ("Biladi," meaning "My Homeland").
These symbols represent Palestinian identity and aspirations.
3. Capital: The status of Jerusalem is a contentious issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Both Israelis and Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their capital. East Jerusalem, which was
occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War, is regarded by Palestinians as the capital
of their future state. However, Israel considers Jerusalem its undivided capital, a stance
that has been widely criticized by the international community.
4. Governance: The Palestinian territories are governed by different entities. The West
Bank is administered by the Palestinian Authority, led by the Palestine Liberation
Organization (PLO) and its president, Mahmoud Abbas. In the Gaza Strip, Hamas, an
Islamist organization, exercises de facto control, having won parliamentary elections in
2006.
5. 2006 Elections significance: In the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, Hamas won a
majority of seats in the Palestinian Legislative Council, leading to its control of the
Palestinian government in the Gaza Strip. The election results led to a political division
between the West Bank, governed by Fatah (a political party within the PLO), and the
Gaza Strip, controlled by Hamas. This division has significantly influenced Palestinian
politics and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The situation in Palestine is complex and remains a central issue in the broader Middle
East peace process, involving negotiations, international diplomacy, and efforts to
achieve a peaceful resolution between Israelis and Palestinians.
Evolving Israel
The evolution of Israel is a multifaceted journey marked by historical, political, and social
developments. Established in 1948, the State of Israel emerged from the Zionist
movement's aspirations for a Jewish homeland. The early years were characterized by the
absorption of Jewish immigrants from various parts of the world, including survivors of
the Holocaust. The War of Independence in 1948-1949 played a crucial role in defining
Israel's borders and solidifying its status as a sovereign state.
Over the decades, Israel has faced ongoing challenges, including conflicts with its Arab
neighbors. The Six-Day War in 1967 resulted in the occupation of territories such as the
West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, shaping the contours of the Israeli-
Palestinian conflict. Subsequent peace agreements, such as the Camp David Accords with
Egypt in 1978 and
the Oslo Accords
with the
Palestinians in the
1990s, brought
moments of hope
but also
encountered
obstacles.
Economically, Israel has transformed into a technological powerhouse, known for its
innovation and start-up culture. The country has made significant strides in fields like
cybersecurity, biotechnology, and renewable energy. Tel Aviv has become a thriving tech
hub. Demographically, Israel is a diverse society with a mix of Jewish and Arab citizens,
each contributing to the nation's cultural mosaic. Political landscapes have seen shifts
over the years, with a range of leaders and governing coalitions shaping policies. Themes
of security, identity, and the quest for peace remain central to the Israeli narrative. The
international community's engagement, including the United States' role as a key ally,
adds another layer to Israel's evolving story on the global stage.
In summary, the evolution of Israel encompasses a complex interplay of historical,
political, economic, and social factors. The nation has navigated triumphs and challenges,
adapting to changing circumstances while remaining a focal point in the broader Middle
East.
Significance of Jerusalem
Jerusalem is an ancient city and claimed by
both Israel and Palestine as their own. Israel
claims the whole undivided city as itsrightful
capital while Palestinians refute this, stating
their right of freedom and self-
determination. The city is also considered a
holy one having many places of religious
importance to the three Abrahamic religions
of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Jerusalem was divided into two – western and eastern parts after Israel declared its
independence in 1948. West Jerusalem became Israel’s capital while East Jerusalem
became part of Jordan.
In the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel captured East Jerusalem, among others.
Shortly after the Israeli takeover, East Jerusalem was absorbed into West Jerusalem,
together with several neighboring West Bank villages. The same year, the UN passed a
resolution asking Israel to retract from occupied places.
In 1980, the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) passed the Jerusalem Law that declared that
“Jerusalem, complete and united, is the capital of Israel”.
Much of the international community considers Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem as
illegal.
While both Israel and Palestine declared Jerusalem their capital, the Palestinians usually
refer to East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine. In 2017, then US President
Donald Trump recognized the whole of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
Jerusalem is significant for both Jews and Muslims, as well as Christians. The Old City of
Jerusalem is in East Jerusalem. It has four quarters – Muslim, Jewish, Christian, and
Armenian.
The city is significant for the Jews chiefly since it was the capital of the ancient Kingdom
of Israel established by the biblical King David.
Also, the First Temple was believed to have been built by King Solomon there, although
there is no archaeological evidence of this.
The Old City also contains the Western Wall, which was originally built as part of the
Second Temple. This place is sacred for Jews.
Jerusalem holds profound religious significance for Muslims, ranking as the third holiest
city after Mecca and Medina. The Old City houses the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest
site for Muslims, believed to be the destination of Prophet Mohammad during the 'Night
Journey.' Christians revere Jerusalem for the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, containing
the pivotal locations of Jesus Christ's crucifixion and empty tomb. Additionally, the Old
City's Temple Mount, known as Haram al-Sharif in Arabic, is a sacred site for both Jews
and Muslims, emphasizing the city's unique role in fostering religious importance across
diverse faiths.
The present site includes the Western Wall, the Al Aqsa Mosque, the Dome of the Rock,
and the Dome of the Chain.
Currently, Israel controls the security in the Temple Mount area with control over who
has access to the site, whereas the religious aspects are dealt with by the Jordanian Waqf.
Only Muslims are allowed to pray at the Dome and the Al Aqsa Mosque (sites which are
revered by Jews as well for various reasons), while Jews can pray at the Western Wall.
Jerusalem is central to the peace talks between both groups as the holy sites are in the
same land.
Previous resolutions by the UN
United Nations Security Council Resolution 1860, adopted on January 9, 2009, was a
response to the Israeli military operation in the Gaza Strip (December 2008 – January
2009) aimed at stopping rocket fire from Hamas militants into Israeli territory. The
resolution was introduced during the conflict and called for an immediate and durable
ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the cessation of all military operations, and the
withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Key points of Resolution 1860 include:
1. Ceasefire: The resolution called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas,
leading to a full cessation of hostilities.
2. Humanitarian Assistance: It stressed the need to ensure the unimpeded provision and
distribution of humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza.
This was particularly significant due to the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict.
3. Opening of Border Crossings: Resolution 1860 called for the sustained reopening of
border crossings into Gaza to facilitate the flow of goods and people and to alleviate the
humanitarian situation.
4. Resumption of Peace Talks: The resolution emphasized the importance of the
resumption of the peace process and urged regional and international efforts to achieve
a comprehensive peace based on the vision of a two-state solution.
5. International Observers: It called for international supervision and monitoring of the
ceasefire, as well as the prevention of illicit trafficking in arms and ammunition.
Despite the adoption of Resolution 1860, the conflict continued for several days after its
passage. The resolution aimed to put an end to the violence, ensure the well-being of
civilians, and promote the resumption of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334, adopted on December 23, 2016,
addressed the issue of Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, including
East Jerusalem. The resolution received significant international attention and criticism,
particularly from Israel and the incoming U.S. administration at the time. Here are the
key points of Resolution 2334:
1. Israeli Settlements: The resolution reiterated that Israel's establishment of settlements
in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, had no legal
validity and constituted a flagrant violation of international law. It condemned the
construction and expansion of settlements, urging Israel to immediately and completely
cease all settlement activities.
2. Two-State Solution: Resolution 2334 reaffirmed the international consensus on the two-
state solution, which envisions an independent and sovereign State of Palestine
coexisting peacefully alongside Israel. It emphasized the need to achieve a just, lasting,
and comprehensive peace agreement between the parties, based on relevant UN
resolutions, international law, and mutual agreements.
3. Calls for Restraint: The resolution called on both parties, Israel and the Palestinians, to
act on the basis of international law, refrain from provocative actions, incitement, and
inflammatory rhetoric. It stressed the importance of implementing measures to prevent
violence against civilians, including acts of terrorism.
4. Peace Process: Resolution 2334 expressed support for ongoing efforts to advance the
peace process, emphasizing the importance of meaningful negotiations between the
parties. It called on the international community, including regional actors and
international organizations, to intensify efforts and support the parties in achieving a
comprehensive and lasting peace.
The passage of Resolution 2334 was significant because it marked the first time in several
years that the Security Council had adopted a resolution addressing the Israeli- Palestinian
conflict directly. The resolution's focus on settlements and its endorsement of the two-state
solution reflected the international community's consensus position on these critical
issues. However, its adoption was met with strong objections from Israeland its allies,
leading to diplomatic tensions and discussions about the role of the United Nations in the
Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
Current Situation
On Saturday, October 7, 2023, Hamas, and other Palestinian armed groups launched
Operation al-Aqsa Flood, a coordinated assault involving land and air attacks into
multiple border areas of Israel. The attack, strategically initiated on a Jewish Sabbath day,
the conclusion of the weeklong Jewish festival of Sukkot, and a day after the 50th
anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, marked a significant escalation.
Around 6 am, an extensive air assault, including
rocket launches into coastal towns like Ashdod,
Ashkelon, and as far north as Tel Aviv, took place,
estimated between 3,000 to 5,000 rockets on the
first day. Approximately 1,000 Hamas militants
breached security barriers at several positions
using hang gliders and explosives, with
subsequent reports of bulldozers creating entry points.
After infiltrating, militants attacked the IDF's southern Gaza headquarters, overrunning
multiple military and police facilities. The surprise assault caught the IDF off guard,
allowing militants to advance up to 14 miles from the border. Towns, kibbutzim, and roads
were attacked, resulting in the killing and abduction of hundreds of Israeli officers and
civilians.
At a music festival near Re'im, where the security fence was breached, Israeli authorities
recovered at least 260 bodies, and an estimated 130 hostages were moved into Gaza. In
response, the IDF declared Operation Iron Swords to retake territory from Hamas.
Clashes erupted along the Gaza-Israel border, including in the town of Sderot, where
Hamas militants seized the local police station.
Aerial strikes targeted compounds believed to house Hamas leadership, civilian areas,
and other strategic locations. The conflict escalated both within Gaza and beyond, with
clashes reported in the West Bank, exchanges of artillery fire between the IDF and
Lebanese Hezbollah, and attempted infiltrations from the northern border with Lebanon.
Israeli authorities mobilized up to 300,000 reservists, evacuated settlements near the Gaza
border, and declared a total blockade on Gaza, restricting the entry of food, and fuel, and
cutting off electricity supplies. The IDF formally declared war against Hamas, raising the
stakes for a potential ground offensive into Gaza. The casualty toll in the first three days
reached over 1,300 people, including 800 Israelis and 500 Palestinians. Notably, 130
Israelis were reported as hostages.
Impact on West Asia
Unexpectedly, the conflict between Israel and Palestine escalated to unforeseen levels.
Observers note that this episode in the history of West Asia is unprecedented and has the
potential to spiral into a larger geopolitical crisis. This crisis could have far-reaching
implications, not only for Palestine and Israel but also for the entire region.
1. Impact on Global Economy:
Oil Prices: The Middle East accounts for nearly a third of the global oil supply. The
conflict has led to a surge in crude oil prices.
Inflation: Rising crude oil prices can lead to high inflation globally. Major economies
like the US, India, and China, which are significant oil importers, could experience
high import inflation if oil prices remain elevated. This can affect production costs
across industries and increase energy costs for businesses and households.
Interest Rates: Central banks might struggle to control inflation, leading to prolonged
elevated interest rates. This could hamper global economic growth.
2. Impact on Financial Markets:
Equity Markets: The conflict has made investors wary, leading to a shift towards safe-
haven assets. Equity markets globally have been affected, with US stock futures and
Asian markets trading lower.
Safe-Haven Assets: Gold prices have risen, with both spot gold and US gold futures
witnessing hikes. The dollar and Japanese yen also edged higher.
3. Broader Implications:
Geopolitical Concerns: The involvement of other nations, especially Iran, could
exacerbate the situation. Iran's potential retaliation could endanger the passage of
vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil supply route.
Exploring the impact on specific West Asian countries:
1. Jordan:
The conflict has influenced Jordan's domestic politics and demographics due to the influx
of Palestinian refugees. The peace treaty signed between Jordan and Israel in 1994 has
somewhat stabilized relations, but the Palestinian issue continues to be a sensitive topic.
2. Lebanon:
The presence of Palestinian refugee camps and ongoing tensions between Israel and
Hezbollah (a Lebanese militant group) contribute to Lebanon's complex political and
security situation.
3. Syria:
The ongoing Syrian Civil War and the presence of Israeli forces in the Golan Heights
continue to contribute to regional instability, complicating Syria's internal dynamics.
4. Iraq:
Iraq's political landscape is influenced by regional tensions, and the Israeli-Palestinian
conflict remains a part of the broader geopolitical context in the region.
5. Iran:
Iran's involvement in regional conflicts, its support for groups opposed to Israel, and its
regional ambitions contribute to the complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict within the
broader West Asian context.
UNSC’s Role
Under the United Nations Charter, the Security Council has primary responsibility for
the maintenance of international peace and security.
Since 1948, the Council has addressed the situation in the Middle East and the Palestinian
question on many occasions.
It also dispatched military observers and deployed UN peacekeeping forces in the region.
The Council has set the basic principles for a negotiated peaceful settlement (known as
the “land for peace” formula) by its resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973).
On numerous occasions, the Council has expressed concern about the situation on the
ground. It has declared null and void the measures taken by the Israeli Government to
change the status of Jerusalem. The Council has also called for the cessation of Israeli
settlement activity, determining it to have no legal validity. Furthermore, it has
reaffirmed the applicability of the Fourth Geneva Convention and called for the return of
Palestinian deportees. The Council has repeatedly called for the immediate resumption
of the negotiations within the current Middle East peace process with the aim of
achieving an early final settlement between the Israeli and Palestinian sides.
The Council affirmed the vision of two States, Israel, and Palestine, living side by side
within secure and recognized borders, by its resolution 1397 (2002), and endorsed the
Quartet’s (UN, Russia, US, and EU) Road
Map by its resolution 1515 (2003).
The Council receives monthly briefings and
holds periodic open debates on the issue. In
2011 President Mahmoud Abbas submitted
the application of Palestine for UN
membership, currently before the Council.
By resolution 2334 (2016) the Council
demanded that Israel immediately and
completely cease all settlement activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the preceding pages of this study guide have provided a deep insight
into the extensive history and current complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By
examining various perspectives, we have uncovered the underlying reasons behind these
geopolitical tensions.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other international entities play
pivotal roles in resolving this dispute. Through diplomatic efforts, mediation, and the
enforcement of peace agreements, the UNSC can contribute significantly to achieving
a comprehensive settlement that respects the rights and aspirations of all parties involved.
Although progress has been made, the region still faces substantial challenges, ranging
from humanitarian crises to the long-term reintegration of affected populations.
It is imperative that we learn from the lessons of the past, remain attentive to shifting
regional dynamics, and collaborate collectively. By addressing the root causes of future
conflicts and meticulously considering the interests and security concerns of all parties,
we can pave the way for a more peaceful and stable future in the region.
QARMA
1. How has the conflict impacted the stability and security of West Asia?
2. What are the major obstacles hindering the peace process between Israel and
Palestine?
3. How can the resolution address the issue of refugees and internally displaced
persons, considering both immediate relief and long-term solutions?
4. Should there be an emphasis on a two-state solution, and if so, what parameters
and borders should be recognized?
5. How can the international community, including the UNSC, support diplomatic
efforts and peace initiatives?
6. What specific actions can the UNSC take to promote peace, stability, and security
in the region?
7. Should there be sanctions or other punitive measures imposed on parties violating
international law or obstructing the peace process?
8. How can historical and regional grievances be addressed to foster cooperation and
understanding?
9. How could a unified, binational state effectively ensure equal rights and
representation for both Israelis and Palestinians?
10. In the context of a confederation framework, what specific shared institutions and
cooperative mechanisms could be established to foster collaboration between the
two states?
11. When seeking international mediation, what criteria should be considered in
selecting a mediator acceptable to both Israelis and Palestinians and how can
sustained commitment from all parties be ensured?
12. For people-to-people initiatives, how can grassroots efforts effectively promote
dialogue and cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians, and what role could
communities play in fostering understanding?
13. When considering regional cooperation, how can neighboring Arab states be
strategically involved in the peace process to address both regional concerns and
the specific needs of Israelis and Palestinians?
Bibliography and References
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conflict-history
➢ https://www.livemint.com/economy/israelpalestine-war-impact-on-global-
economy-india-israel-trade-financial-markets-11696837346161.html
➢ https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/25/what-has-the-un-done-on-the-
israel-palestine-conflict#:~:text=from%20Israeli%20bombing.-
,Aid,since%20Israel%20is%20inspecting%20it.
➢ https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/
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➢ https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/unsc-fails-to-adopt-resolution- on-
israel-palestine-conflict-after-veto-by-us/article67435649.ece
➢ https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-the-israel-hamas-war-
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