Introduction to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

As one of the most enduring and bitter struggles we have seen in over 100 years, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a powder keg, always on the verge of exploding and drawing in the wider region, the international community at large, and, in particular, the U.S. Although the conflict is of far-reaching importance, among college students and the general public there is a dearth of knowledge about it. Many of the conversations in these audiences are animated by ongoing myths and problematic talking points. This book fills in the gaps of understanding while puncturing false dichotomies and tearing down walls of ideology or indifference. It addresses perennial questions including: When and why did the conflict start? What exactly are the claims of the contending sides? Why does peace seem unattainable? What is a likely long-term outcome and how can it be brought about in a peaceful way, doing justice to both sides? Finally, this book maintains that historic Palestine, the land between the Mediterranean and the Jordan River, must become a home for both Palestinians and Jews, with equal standings for both and without exclusive claims for either. For students, scholars, and citizens of the world, this book provides a concise and level-headed way to understand one of the most complex and vexing conflicts of our time.