Understanding the West Bank: Territorial Disputes Explained

The West Bank, a territory adjacent to the River Jordan, has been a focal point of conflict since the 1967 Middle East War when it was occupied by Israel. This land is bordered to the west by Israel and to the east by Jordan, making it significant in regional geopolitics. The Palestinian population, which numbers between 2.1 and 3 million, lives under a mix of limited self-rule and Israeli military governance. Meanwhile, approximately 700,000 Israeli settlers reside in settlements built during the ongoing occupation. These settlements are a contentious issue, with the vast majority of the international community deeming them illegal under international law, a stance that Israel contests vehemently. Despite decades of intermittent dialogue, the final status of the West Bank remains uncertain, leaving both parties asserting competing claims over the land. This situation can be likened to a family feud over inherited property, where past agreements and unresolved tensions complicate future negotiations, often leading to further disputes and misunderstandings.