Geopolitics of the Middle East Western influence in the Middle East 1948: Israel (re)created by U.N.* In a mostly Arabic region, most reject / resent the decision by Core countries to assist in creation of Israel in what they consider their homeland (culturally, historically, religiously) for ~3,000 years Cultural bias on part of Core countries? * Partition Plan: signifies the birth of what has come to be recognized as continuous trouble for the U.S. (mostly) in the Middle East Palestinian Newspaper

1948: UN Partition Plan Jewish State (Israel) Arab State (Palestine) International Zone (Jerusalem)

Holy City to Jews, Muslims, and Christians Jerusalem: Holy City to Jews, Muslims, and Christians

20th Century History of Israel / Palestine

Nation? State? Nation-State? Concept? Occupied Lands? Palestine:

Palestinians West Bank Gaza Strip Arab (ethnic) territoriality Palestinians are multi-religious: - Mostly Muslims but many Christians Ethnic nationalist movement, but some newer Muslim groups

The Main Issue: From Palestinian point of view: Israel is made of land taken from the Arab World Anyone who supports Israel is part of the problem (Western Countries such as the U.S.) From Israel’s point of view: Israel is Jewish holy land, rightfully returned after ~2,000 years Under constant threat / attack