This book looks at the ongoing and seemingly intractable Israeli-Palestinian conflict as, at root, a struggle over land that began in the late 19th century. As one of the most enduring and bitter struggles we have seen in the last 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 US. Although the conflict is of far-reaching importance, among college students and the general public. there is 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 Arabs 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.
1. Understanding the Conflict and Its Background
2. A Conflict Made in Europe
3. The Holy Land Becomes the Embattled Land
4. The Wars Begin
5. Towards Permanent Occupation
6. Peace Process to Nowhere
7. Into the Present
8. Towards What Outcome?
Biography
Akan Malici is Professor of Politics and International Affairs at Furman University. He has authored, co-authored, and co-edited numerous books, articles, and chapters on international politics and conflict, as well as on research methodology. Among the books are U.S. Presidents and Foreign Policy Mistakes and Role Theory and Role Conflict in U.S.-Iran Relations (both coauthored with Stephen G. Walker).
Praise for An Introduction to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
"This book is a crucial contribution, outlining the main issues and debates surrounding the conflict in Israel/Palestine. Especially at a time where disinformation and misconceptions abound, students and general readers interested in an academically grounded and fair assessment of the ongoing conflict would do well to read this closely."
Dana El Kurd , University of Richmond