West Bank Barrier

Definition

The West Bank Barrier is a series of fences and walls constructed by Israel, intended to separate Israeli settlements and territories from Palestinian areas in the West Bank. This barrier serves as a significant political boundary, reflecting the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the complex issues surrounding territorial control and security.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Construction of the West Bank Barrier began in 2002 during the Second Intifada, primarily to prevent attacks on Israeli citizens.
2. The barrier stretches over 700 kilometers and includes both concrete walls and fencing, often running deep into Palestinian territories.
3. The International Court of Justice ruled in 2004 that the barrier was illegal under international law when it obstructed Palestinian land and rights.
4. The barrier has been a point of contention, as it effectively alters the borders and can restrict Palestinian access to resources and land.
5. While Israel claims the barrier is essential for security, many Palestinians view it as a tool of oppression and a means of annexing land.

Review Questions

• How does the West Bank Barrier impact daily life for Palestinians living near it?
  • The West Bank Barrier significantly affects daily life for Palestinians by restricting their movement between communities and access to essential resources like water, agricultural land, and employment opportunities. Many Palestinians have to navigate checkpoints or find longer routes to reach their destinations, which can lead to delays, frustration, and sometimes violence. The barrier also separates families and limits social interaction, creating psychological stress within affected communities.
• Discuss the political implications of the West Bank Barrier on Israeli-Palestinian relations.
  • The West Bank Barrier has deepened divisions between Israelis and Palestinians, contributing to heightened tensions and conflict. While Israel argues that it is necessary for national security, Palestinians view it as a symbol of occupation and an obstacle to peace. The presence of the barrier complicates negotiations for a two-state solution by altering demographics and claiming territory that might otherwise belong to a future Palestinian state. As such, it plays a crucial role in the ongoing struggle for sovereignty and recognition.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the West Bank Barrier in achieving its stated goals versus its consequences on human rights.
  • While the West Bank Barrier has been credited with reducing some security incidents against Israelis, its effectiveness must be weighed against severe human rights concerns. The construction and enforcement of the barrier infringe on the rights of Palestinians by limiting their freedom of movement, access to basic services, and ability to maintain livelihoods. Additionally, by altering the landscape of territorial control, it perpetuates an environment of tension that undermines prospects for peace, raising ethical questions about its justification despite any claimed security benefits.

Related terms

Green Line: The demarcation line established in 1949 between Israel and the neighboring Arab states, which serves as the unofficial border of Israel before the 1967 war.

Settlements:

Israeli communities built on land that is considered occupied territory under international law, often leading to tensions with Palestinian residents.

Intifada: A term referring to Palestinian uprisings against Israeli occupation, with two major uprisings occurring from 1987 to 1993 and from 2000 to 2005.