The Wall, a 640-km (440-mile) West Bank barrier.
© Stop The Wall
Understanding the Palestinian Territories
The Palestinian territories encompass crucial regions such as the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, both of which lie under varying degrees of Israeli control and occupation. Recognizing the importance of these areas in the stability of the Middle East, we should delve deeper into their unique aspects. The State of Palestine, which claims both regions, is officially recognized by the United Nations as a Non-Member Observer State, a status achieved on 29 November 2012. East Jerusalem serves as the designated capital of this state, while the administrative hub finds its home in Ramallah, located in the West Bank. Though more than 130 countries have acknowledged the State of Palestine, notable exceptions include France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and several others.
A Glance at Population and Geography
As of mid-2016, an estimated 4.81 million people call the Palestinian territories home. In the Gaza Strip, which boasts a Mediterranean coastline, approximately 1.9 million Palestinian Arabs reside, with Gaza City serving as both the largest city and the administrative center. The Gaza Strip is bordered by Egypt to the southwest and Israel to the north and east, creating a complex socio-political landscape.
Conversely, the West Bank presents a different scenario. This rugged, landlocked territory lies west of Jordan and is enveloped by Israel on three sides. Occupying an area of 5,860 square kilometers, the West Bank is slightly larger than twice the size of Luxembourg and has a population approaching 3 million. Among this population, around 390,000 Israeli settlers also live here. The predominance of Arabic, alongside Hebrew and English, reflects the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.
Exploring the Gaza Strip
The Gaza Strip’s coastal plain features sandy and dune-covered landscapes, while its demographics reflect a predominantly Muslim population, with Sunnis accounting for between 98% and 99%. Interestingly, both Arabic and Hebrew are commonly spoken. The local economy thrives on agriculture, focusing on products like olives, citrus fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, small family-run businesses contribute significantly, producing goods such as textiles and crafts made from olive wood.
Insight into the West Bank
The West Bank’s geography showcases rugged uplands with some vegetation, predominantly in the western areas. The climate here aligns with the Mediterranean pattern, featuring hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters. This variation in terrain and climate affects both the lifestyle and the economy of the local population.
Governance and Political Dynamics
Governance within the Palestinian territories occurs primarily through the Palestinian National Authority. This interim body nominally oversees areas within both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, although its power remains limited due to a complex political landscape. The historical context is essential for understanding the present situation. Following the Israel-PLO Declaration of Principles, signed in 1993, Israel agreed to transfer specific powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority during a transitional period. This process has seen peaks and troughs influenced by various political developments over the years.
For instance, after the passing of prominent Palestinian leader Yassir Arafat in 2004, Mahmoud Abbas emerged as a new figure, heading the Palestinian Authority. Then in 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew its settlers and soldiers from the Gaza Strip, a move meant to shift dynamics but which ultimately led to complications. The situation intensified when Hamas, an Islamist political faction, won the Palestinian Legislative Council elections in early 2006, leading to a significant shift in governance and control.
Recent Conflicts and Humanitarian Issues
Amid these political oscillations, violent clashes erupted between rival factions Fatah and Hamas. Notably, in July 2014, Gaza-based militant groups, including Hamas, engaged in a 51-day conflict with Israel, marking the third major confrontation since Hamas gained control in 2007. This conflict concluded with an open-ended truce, yet peace remains tenuous with sporadic hostilities continuing since then. Reconstruction efforts have faced obstacles due to Israeli restrictions on goods entering Gaza and insufficient international aid, leading the United Nations to caution in 2015 that the Gaza Strip could become uninhabitable by 2020 without significant changes.
Social and Cultural Dynamics in the Palestinian Territories
The rich cultural heritage of the Palestinian territories is palpable in its traditions, cuisine, and community life. Arabic remains the primary language spoken, yet Hebrew and English also hold significant roles, especially in urban areas and among younger generations. Islam predominantly influences the culture, with about 75% identifying as Muslim, while Jewish and Christian communities add to the diversity of beliefs and practices.
Natural Resources and Economic Landscape
In terms of natural resources, the region boasts arable land and natural gas reserves. The agricultural sector remains vital, with olives, citrus, and various vegetables forming the backbone of local production. Moreover, small industries flourish, ranging from textiles to mother-of-pearl souvenirs, emphasizing the importance of family businesses within the economy. Trade links mainly connect the Palestinian territories with Israel and Jordan for both imports and exports.
International Recognition and Challenges
The plight of the Palestinian territories remains a subject of global concern. Various international bodies continually call for a resolution to the ongoing conflicts and humanitarian issues. The United Nations Security Council's 2016 resolution condemning Israeli settlements in the West Bank exemplifies ongoing tensions surrounding territorial disputes. Likewise, the controversial recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital by the United States in December 2017 intensified international criticism, showcasing the fragile state of peace efforts.
Conclusion
In summary, navigating the complexities of the Palestinian territories reveals a mosaic of historical, political, and cultural narratives. Understanding these territories—rich in heritage yet fraught with challenges—provides critical insights into the broader geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. As the future continues to unfold, the interplay of governance, culture, and international relations will play crucial roles in shaping the destiny of the Palestinian territories and their people.
Cultural Heritage The Palestinian territories are home to a rich cultural heritage, including ancient cities like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Hebron, which hold significant historical and religious importance.
Diverse Geography The geography of the Palestinian territories features a variety of landscapes, including mountainous regions, coastal areas along the Mediterranean Sea, and the fertile Jordan Valley.
Population The Palestinian territories have a population of around 5 million people, with a significant portion residing in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
Economy The economy of the Palestinian territories is based on agriculture, services, and trade, with olive oil production being a key agricultural product.
Education Education is highly valued in Palestinian society, with a literacy rate of around 96%, and a significant number of universities and institutions of higher education in the territories.
Largest cities of: Palestinian territories
| City Name | Population | Year of foundation | |
| Gaza City | 700,000 | circa 1500 B | |
| Hebron | 215,000 | circa 2000 B | |
| Nablus | 150,000 | 72 | |
| Tulkarm | 55,000 | 1060 | |
| Jenin | 38,000 | circa 3000 B | |
| Bethlehem | 25,000 | circa 1370 B |