The Geopolitical Reality: Israel, Palestine, and the West Bank/Gaza
The debate surrounding the control of territories in the Middle East has been contentious for decades. A common misconception is the existence of 'Palestine' as a recognized state. Delving into the historical and geopolitical context provides clarity and a more nuanced understanding of the situation.
Historical Context: The British Mandate of Palestine
The British mandate established by the League of Nations after World War I spanned approximately 115,000 square kilometers, extending from the Mediterranean coast to the Iraqi border. This vast expanse saw two distinct governance structures emerge: Israel and Jordan.
Modern Israel encompasses about 22,000 square kilometers, which is roughly 19 percent of the original British mandate territory. In contrast, modern Jordan covers 77 percent of the same mandate. The remaining 22 percent represents the West Bank and Gaza.
Israel's Control of the West Bank and Gaza
Since its establishment in 1948, Israel has indeed had significant control over these former Palestinian territories. This control is often mistakenly conflated with 'occupation,' but the term 'occupation' more accurately applies to other areas where international law defines such a situation.
Israel's control of the West Bank and Gaza is characterized by various measures, including military presence, settlement construction, and movement restrictions. These actions have been the subject of much international debate and condemnation, particularly over human rights and humanitarian concerns.
The Existence of Palestine: A Myth or a Reality?
The argument that 'there is no “Palestine” and never was' is based on the premise that 'Palestine' has no accepted boundaries and has never been recognized as a sovereign state. Indeed, there has never been a 'Palestinian state' in the context of the international community. However, this does not diminish the historical, cultural, and demographic connections between the Palestinian people and the region.
The concept of 'Palestine' has been loosely defined and is often a term used to refer to the West Bank and Gaza. The United Nations refers to these territories as 'the territories occupied since 1967,' which include the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights.
The Controversial Terminology
Using terms like 'occupation' triggers strong emotions and political debate. In legal and international contexts, 'occupation' specifically refers to the situation where a foreign power exercises control over another territory without the consent of the international community. This does not align with the complex reality of Israeli control, which is more nuanced and context-dependent.
For example, the Israeli territories of the West Bank and Gaza today face legal, political, and humanitarian challenges that go beyond the typical 'occupation' scenario. The term 'Ocupation' is often used out of political or ideological motives rather than a strict definition of international law.
Conclusion
The geopolitical reality of Israel and the West Bank/Gaza is a complex issue with deep historical and cultural roots. While 'Palestine' as a recognized state does not exist, the West Bank and Gaza have been the subject of intense international debate over their status and control. Understanding the historical context and the current situation is critical for a balanced view of this ongoing conflict.