ABSTRACT

This study examined, “How Terrorism Can Spoil the Relationship Between Two Countries Sharing Boundaries Case Study: Isreal and Palestine”. The study was guided by three research objectives: To Investigate the causes of Terrorism in the Israel-Palestine conflict, to assess the effects of terrorism on the relationship between Isreal and Palestine in their Border, to analyses the measures put in place by the state to remedy terrorism between Israel and Palestine. The research objectives were later transformed into research questions. The study was guided by the Social Politics Theory and Social Identity Theory to justify the study. The study adopted the descriptive cross sectional research design with the used of Thematic approach and the development of themes to Collect data. The sample sizes of the study consisted of online surveys and 9 participants in answering the interview guide. An open-ended question was used for data collection. The data were analysed using Thematic analysis with the use of themes. The findings revealed that; Terrorism in the Isreal-Palestinian border is being caused by the Manufacture and Circulation of Weapons, the lassez-faire along these border, and that these terrorism acts have affected the states in the economic, social, political and cultural ways. Thus, measures are implemented the government to resolve these issues such as Security, the checking weapons within that area and so on.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study.

The phenomenon of terrorism has profound implications for international relations, particularly among nations sharing contested boundaries. It can exacerbate tensions, foster mistrust, and lead to cycles of violence that hinder diplomatic efforts and lasting peace. This is particularly evident in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has been marred by acts of terrorism, violence, and retaliatory measures over decades. This case study examines how terrorism has influenced Israel-Palestine relations, illustrating the ways in which acts of violence, both from state and non-state actors, have shaped the trajectory of their interactions and perpetuated a cycle of hostility. To understand the impact of terrorism on Israeli-Palestinian relations, one must first consider the historical backdrop of the conflict. The roots of the Israeli-Palestinian discord can be traced back to the early 20th century, stemming from competing nationalisms—Jewish and Arab. The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 triggered a mass displacement of Palestinians, known as the Nakba, further entrenching the divide. Since then, various forms of violence, including terrorism, have emerged predominantly in reaction to political grievances, claiming lives on both sides and complicating peace initiatives(Kocher, 2007).

The period following the 1967 Six-Day War marked a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict. Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, coupled with the rise of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) and later other groups, such as Hamas, set the stage for waves of violence characterized by acts of terrorism that would haunt bilateral relations. These actions have not only fortified extremist factions but have also complicated legitimate political discourse. Terrorism, in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, can be defined as the use of violence to achieve political aims. Both Israeli and Palestinian factions have engaged in acts of terrorism. Palestinian groups have conducted suicide bombings, rocket attacks, and armed assaults targeting Israeli civilians and military personnel. Conversely, state-sponsored actions by Israel, including targeted assassinations and military operations, have also raised questions about the boundaries between counter-terrorism and acts of state terrorism. Notable examples include the Israeli operations during the Second Intifada and the numerous airstrikes in Gaza (Kalyvas, 2021)

Each act of terrorism has the potential to escalate conflicts by provoking retaliatory measures. For instance, the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin in 1995 by a Jewish extremist was a significant blow to the peace process. On the Palestinian side, attacks such as the 2000 Tel Aviv discotheque bombing not only intensified Israeli military responses but also hampered peace negotiations, leading to further divisions within Palestinian society and governance. The cycle of violence perpetuated by acts of terrorism fosters an environment where fear and rage supersede diplomatic dialogue. Trust is eroded, and the potential for compromise diminishes as both sides resort to justifying their actions as self-defense or as a means of resistance. Over time, this results in entrenched positions that make the prospect of peace increasingly elusive. The cyclical nature of violence not only affects governments but deeply impacts societies as well. Communities suffering from terrorism often deal with trauma, loss, and a pervasive sense of insecurity. In Israel, the constant threat of rocket attacks from Gaza has led to widespread anxiety and a culture of militarization. For Palestinians, frequent Israeli incursions and military operations create an environment of fear and hopelessness, further radicalizing some individuals who may feel that terrorism is an avenue for asserting their plight (Zimmer, 2009).

Furthermore, the narratives built around acts of terrorism contribute to an ‘us versus them’ mentality. Each side’s perception of the other is often colored by fear and hatred, leading to a constant cycle of dehumanization. This societal tension complicates efforts for reconciliation, perpetuating hostility between the two communities. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict transcends its local context, influencing regional stability and international relations. The various acts of terrorism associated with this conflict often attract global attention, inviting intervention or support from foreign powers with vested interests. Countries may align with one side or the other, based on perceptions of legitimacy in the context of terrorism. This external involvement sometimes exacerbates the situation, with states using violence as a pretext for their political agendas (Pyle, 1988, pp. 181-182)..

The post-9/11 global war on terror further complicates this landscape, as terrorism becomes a centerpiece of foreign policy. The framing of the Palestinian struggle for statehood through the lens of terrorism often undermines the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people, complicating international efforts to mediate peace. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict serves as a critical case study in understanding the interplay between terrorism and the deterioration of bilateral relations. Acts of violence, whether perpetrated by state actors or non-state organizations, have far-reaching consequences that foster mistrust, perpetuate conflict, and hinder diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving peace.

 As both Israelis and Palestinians navigate their historical grievances and existential fears, the cycle of terrorism remains a critical factor in shaping their future relations. Without addressing the underlying issues that fuel terrorism, any attempts at establishing peace will continue to be an uphill battle fraught with challenges and setbacks. Effective conflict resolution strategies must incorporate dialogue, empathy, and an understanding of the traumatic impacts of violence on both sides to break the cycle and pave the way toward a future where peace is not just a hope, but a tangible reality.

The Israel-Palestine conflict is one of the longest-running conflicts in modern history. It has its roots in a series of historical, political, and sociocultural disagreements between the two groups over territory and national identity. This conflict has perpetuated cycles of violence, terrorism, and retaliation, resulting in significant humanitarian crises and geopolitical consequences. The area known today as Israel and Palestine has been inhabited for thousands of years and holds significant religious importance for Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. The roots of contemporary conflicts can be traced back to the late 19th century when Jewish nationalism (Zionism) gained momentum, leading to increased immigration to Palestine, then part of the Ottoman Empire. Tensions mounted as local Arab populations began to resist what they perceived as colonial encroachment (O’Brien, 2012)..

The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 marked a turning point that intensified the conflict, leading to the first Arab-Israeli war. Approximately 700,000 Palestinians were displaced, an event known as the Nakba or “catastrophe” in Palestinian history (Said, 2000). Since then, several wars, uprisings (Intifadas), and ongoing violent exchanges have characterized the relationship between Israel and Palestine. The emergence of terrorist groups, such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine, has further complicated the situation. These groups often resort to violence as a means of achieving their political objectives, which contributes to the deterioration of relationships not only between the two populations but also affects wider international relations (Hoffman, 2006).

In the last few years, particularly from 2020 to 2023, the situation has deteriorated further, marked by recurrent violent clashes, ongoing occupation, and a lack of meaningful peace talks. The political landscape has been influenced by shifting international alliances, the rise of far-right politics in Israel, and the global dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic impacting peace negotiations. Several studies have explored terrorism’s role in spoiling diplomatic relations. Schmid (2013) argues that terrorist activities incite fear, which can lead to aggressive state reactions and a cycle of revenge. This dynamic is evident in the Israeli-Palestinian context, where terrorism is a significant factor undermining peace endeavors This study aims to delve into how terrorism specifically spoils the relationship between Israel and Palestine, analyzing various facets of the conflict within the specified timeframe Schmid (2013).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The relationship between Israel and Palestine has been defined by conflict, violence, and humanitarian crises, particularly over the last few decades. Terrorism exacerbates this situation, hindering not only the possibility of peace negotiations but also increasing hostility and mistrust between both parties.

Terrorist acts, ranging from rocket launches to suicide bombings, lead to immediate military responses by Israel, further entrenching cycles of violence and retaliation (Gould, 2018). The use of such violence severely undermines the efforts for peaceful resolutions, invoking fear and counterproductive reactions from both sides.

Throughout 2020-2023, there have been several escalations in violence, which have raised significant questions about the framework of future relations between the two groups. With both sides suffering immense casualties and economic ramifications, the role of terrorism in perpetuating this state of affairs remains a critical area of exploration. There is a pressing need to understand how this form of violence not only destroys the potential for peaceful coexistence but also impacts broader geopolitical dynamics in the region, complicating relations between neighboring states that have stakes in the conflict, such as Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon.

1.3 Research Questions

1.3.1 Main research question

How does terrorism spoil the diplomatic and social relationships between Israel and Palestine?

1.3.2 Specific research questions

1. What are the causes of Terrorism in the Israel-Palestine conflict?
2. how does Terrorism affects the relationship between Isreal and Palestine in their Border?
3. what are the measures put in place by the state to remedy terrorism between Israel and Palestine?

1.4 Objectives of the study

1.4.1 Main Research Objective

To analyze What are the causes of Terrorism in the Israel-Palestine conflict

1.4.2 Specific research objectives

1. To Investigate the causes of Terrorism in the Israel-Palestine conflict
2. To assess the effects of terrorism on the relationship between Isreal and Palestine in their Border
3. To analyses the measures put in place by the state to remedy terrorism between Israel and Palestine