The Complex History of the Palestine Issue: Unraveling its Origins

Palestine Partition Map Majority Proposal

A sketch map of the plan on partition of Palestine, with economic union, proposed by the majority of the United Nations Special Committee on Palestine. The plan envisages the division of Palestine into 3 parts: a Jewish state, an Arab State (dark tint), and the City of Jerusalem (white), to be placed under an International Trusteeship system. 1947, United Nations (Lake Success), New York. UN Photo.

Introduction:

The question of Palestine, which has evolved into one of the most enduring and complex international issues of the 20th century, has its roots in the aftermath of World War I. The origins of the Palestine problem as an international concern, however, trace back to the final years of World War I when the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire set the stage for a new chapter in the region's history. In this article, we will delve into the historical complexities and events that contributed to the Palestine issue and its subsequent impact on the Middle East.

I. The Beginnings of the Palestine Issue

The Disintegration of the Ottoman Empire:

The declining Ottoman Empire was a focal point of European diplomatic concerns in the early 20th century. As the empire weakened, the Great Powers vied for control or influence over its territories. Ultimately, the Ottoman Empire was dismantled following its defeat in World War I.

Anglo-Arab Understandings on Arab Independence:

In the midst of World War I, negotiations between Britain, France, Russia, and Italy led to the secret Sykes-Picot agreement, which outlined the division of Ottoman Arab territories into spheres of influence. Initially, an international regime was envisioned for Palestine, but it ultimately came under British administration. The emerging Arab nationalism, seeking independent sovereign states, played a significant role in shaping the region's future.

The Husain-McMahon Correspondence:

Correspondence between Sir Henry McMahon, British High Commissioner in Egypt, and Sherif Husain, Emir of Mecca, involved discussions about Arab independence. Sherif Husain, representing the Arab peoples, demanded independence for Arab territories, including Palestine. The British government confirmed its support for Arab independence, which included Palestine.

Conflicting Interpretations:

While the British assured Arab independence, they later contended that Palestine was excluded from these assurances, a claim challenged by Palestinian and Arab leaders. A joint Anglo-French declaration in 1918 reinforced the commitment to Arab self-determination, but disputes remained over the specific territories included.

A Committee's Assessment:

In 1939, a committee with British and Arab representatives was formed to examine the issue of whether Palestine had been included in the British assurances of independence. The committee concluded that Palestine had not been unequivocally excluded from the commitments, and British pledges toward the Palestinian people had to be considered.

The Balfour Declaration:

In parallel with the Arab commitments, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, expressing support for the establishment of a "national home for the Jewish people in Palestine." This created a clash of interests between the Zionist movement and the Arab population, setting the stage for future tensions.

Conclusion:

The Palestine issue, deeply rooted in historical commitments and diplomatic agreements, has been a source of conflict and instability in the Middle East for over a century. The collision of promises made to both Arab and Zionist movements has left a lasting impact on the region. Understanding the complex origins of the Palestine issue is essential for comprehending the ongoing struggle for peace and self-determination in the Middle East.