The Conflict over Bethlehem
Bethlehem, a city in the West Bank, has been at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for decades. The city is known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ and is visited by millions of Christians annually. However, the status of Bethlehem remains disputed between Israel and Palestine. Both countries claim sovereignty over the city, making it a highly contested area in the Middle East.
Historical Overview of Bethlehem
Bethlehem has a rich history dating back to biblical times. Throughout history, the city has been under the control of various empires and nations, including the Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire, Ottoman Empire, and the British Mandate. After the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Bethlehem became part of Jordan until the Six-Day War in 1967, when Israel occupied the West Bank. Since then, Bethlehem has been under Israeli military occupation, with the Palestinian Authority governing the city under the Oslo Accords.
The United Nations and Bethlehem
In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan that would have divided the land into two states, one for Jews and one for Palestinians. However, this plan was rejected by the Arab states, and the subsequent wars that followed resulted in Israel taking control of much of the land. The UN has since recognized the Palestinian right to self-determination and has condemned Israel’s settlement activities in the West Bank, including Bethlehem.
Bethlehem Since the Oslo Accords
The Oslo Accords, signed between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization in 1993, created the Palestinian Authority and gave it limited autonomy over parts of the West Bank, including Bethlehem. Despite the agreement, the Israeli occupation of the city has continued, with various restrictions on movement and economic activity.
The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict and Bethlehem
Bethlehem, like many other areas in the West Bank, has been the site of numerous clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian protesters. The ongoing occupation, settlement expansion, and violence have led to tensions and further deepened the divide between the two sides.
The Impact of the Separation Barrier on Bethlehem
The Israeli government erected a barrier in the West Bank in 2002, ostensibly for security reasons. However, the barrier has cut off Bethlehem from neighboring cities and has severely restricted movement for Palestinians. Many Palestinians have lost their land and livelihoods as a result of the barrier, causing further resentment towards Israel.
Israeli Settlements in Bethlehem
Israel has built numerous settlements in the West Bank, including Bethlehem. These settlements are considered illegal under international law and have been a major obstacle to peace negotiations. The settlements have led to the displacement of Palestinians from their homes and have further entrenched Israeli control over the city.
Current Legal Status of Bethlehem
Bethlehem is located in the West Bank, which is considered occupied Palestinian territory under international law. However, Israel continues to exercise control over the area, including the city. The legal status of Bethlehem remains disputed, with both Israel and Palestine claiming sovereignty over the city.
The Role of International Law in the Bethlehem Dispute
International law prohibits the annexation of occupied territory by an occupying power. Therefore, Israel’s claims to sovereignty over Bethlehem are not recognized by the international community. The United Nations has repeatedly called for an end to the occupation and for the establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Implications of Bethlehem’s Status for the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
The status of Bethlehem is symbolic of the wider conflict between Israel and Palestine. The ongoing occupation and settlement expansion have hindered any progress towards a peaceful resolution. The disputes over control of Bethlehem and other areas in the West Bank are major obstacles to peace negotiations.
Conclusion: The Future of Bethlehem
The future of Bethlehem remains uncertain. The city’s status is a key issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and any resolution must address the concerns of both sides. The establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital remains the most viable option for achieving lasting peace in the region. However, reaching such an agreement is a complex and challenging task that requires political will and compromise from both sides.
References and Further Reading
- UN Resolutions on Palestine: https://www.un.org/unispal/document/auto-insert-180239/
- B’Tselem: https://www.btselem.org/settlements
- Human Rights Watch: https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2020/country-chapters/israel/palestine
- Al Jazeera: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/5/11/israeli-settlements-explained
- The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/may/21/israeli-troops-kill-at-least-11-in-gaza-as-netanyahu-vows-escalation
