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Sushi Authors

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27-09-2024

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The 1967 Borders of Palestine: A Complex History and Ongoing Debate

The 1967 borders of Palestine, also known as the Green Line, represent a crucial point of reference in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Understanding this historical boundary is essential to grasping the current political landscape and the challenges of reaching a peaceful resolution.

What were the 1967 borders?

The Green Line, established in 1949 after the first Arab-Israeli war, marked the armistice lines between Israel and its neighbors. It encompassed the territory Israel controlled after the war, including the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. However, it wasn't intended to be a permanent border.

The Six-Day War and the Shifting Landscape

In 1967, the Six-Day War dramatically altered the situation. Israel captured the remaining territories of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza Strip, Sinai Peninsula, and the Golan Heights from Egypt, Jordan, and Syria. These territories have remained under Israeli control ever since, though the status of each is contested.

The International Perspective

The international community generally recognizes the pre-1967 borders as the basis for a two-state solution, as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 242. This resolution calls for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied territories and the establishment of a Palestinian state.

The Palestinian Perspective

Palestinians view the Green Line as the rightful border of a future Palestinian state, as outlined in the Palestinian Liberation Organization's (PLO) 1988 Declaration of Independence. They argue that the territories occupied in 1967 represent their homeland and the foundation for a viable state.

The Israeli Perspective

Israel's position on the 1967 borders is more complex. While some Israeli voices advocate for a full withdrawal, others argue for retaining some or all of the occupied territories for security and historical reasons. There are also diverse viewpoints within Israel on the status of Jerusalem.

Challenges to Peace

The debate over the 1967 borders continues to be a major obstacle to a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Several challenges complicate the situation:

• Settlements: The presence of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, built since 1967, creates a physical and legal barrier to a contiguous Palestinian state.
• Jerusalem: The status of Jerusalem, which is claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians, is a particularly sensitive and unresolved issue.
• Security Concerns: Israel's security concerns regarding the Palestinian territories remain a significant factor in its approach to peace negotiations.

The Future of the 1967 Borders

Ultimately, the future of the 1967 borders hinges on the success of peace negotiations. Achieving a two-state solution requires addressing the core issues of settlements, Jerusalem, security, and Palestinian statehood.

Additional Resources:

• The Green Line: A Brief History by Haaretz
• The Six-Day War by Britannica
• UN Security Council Resolution 242
• The PLO's Declaration of Independence

Author's Note: This article is based on information from various sources, including academic papers and news articles, which can be found through the links provided above. The content aims to present a neutral and balanced overview of the complex history and ongoing debate surrounding the 1967 borders of Palestine.