๐ Understanding Islam in the West Bank and Gaza: A Deep Dive ๐
Definition and Meaning
The West Bank and Gaza, collectively referred to as the Palestinian Territories, lie at the heart of both geographic and political Islam in Palestine. While the West Bank lies to the west of the Jordan River, overseen by Jordan until their loss to Israel in 1967, the Gaza Strip is a slim section of land along the Mediterranean Sea previously under Egyptian control. Both regions are in constant negotiation as part of the envisioned Palestinian state.
Demographics
- Gaza: About 99% Sunni Muslim, with Christians constituting a mere 0.07%.
- West Bank and East Jerusalem: Approx. 75% Sunni Muslim, 17% Jewish, with 8% being either Christian or of other faiths.
Etymology and Background
The term “West Bank” comes from its location on the western side of the Jordan River, differentiating it from the East Bank of Jordan, where the kingdom of Jordan lies. “Gaza” traces back to ancient times and has been historically known as a coastal strip of significance.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1948: The creation of the State of Israel.
- 1952: West Bank annexed by Jordan.
- 1967: Six-Day War leads to Israel’s control over the West Bank and Gaza.
- 1988: Jordan renounced claims to the West Bank. The PLO declared the establishment of the State of Palestine.
Cultural Context
The West Bank and Gaza Strip hold religious, social, and political importance due to their predominantly Sunni Muslim population interwoven with Christian and Jewish communities. Islamic practices and teachings influence not only the religious but also cultural and social aspects of life in these regions.
Impact of Israeli Occupation
Since the Israeli occupation began in 1967, the Palestinian inhabitants face numerous civil and political challenges, such as land confiscation for Israeli settlements, diversion of water resources, and the annexation of East Jerusalem in contradiction to international norms and UN Security Council resolutions (242 and 338).
UN Security Council Resolutions
- Resolutions 242 and 338: Calling for Israel’s withdrawal from occupied territories and the recognition of every state in the area to live in peace within secure and recognized boundaries.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Identifying specific cultural crossovers can be challenging due to the distinct and deeply rooted socio-political landscapes of place. However, the shared Sunni Muslim heritage often provides common ground within the broader Islamic ethos.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Palestinian Territories, Occupied Territories, Jerusalem and Surroundings.
- Antonyms: Sovereign Israeli States, Independent Nations, Self-Governing Territories.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Sunni Islam: The denomination of Islam that emphasizes following the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Palestinian Authority: The administrative organization empowered the governance of parts of the West Bank and Gaza.
Exciting Facts
- Despite the intense political situation, Palestinians in these areas have preserved a rich cultural heritage inclusive of arts, literature, and traditional cuisine.
- You can find ancient Islamic architecture dotting Jerusalem and Gaza representing centuries of Islamic history.
Quotations
- “Victory is changing the hearts of your opponents by redemption and patience.” โ Yasser Arafat
- “Our suffering is a witness to the conflict, our resilience a testament to our perseverance.” โ Mahmoud Darwish
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid” by Jimmy Carter.
- “I Saw Ramallah” by Mourid Barghouti.
- “The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine” by Ilan Pappรฉ.
- “The Hundred Year Struggle for Jerusalem: A History of Conflict from the Ottomans to the Present” by Aykan Erdemir.
Inspired by the resilience and spirit of those in the West Bank and Gaza, let us continue to build knowledge and empathy, breaking down barriers for a harmonious coexistence.
Ibrahim El-Khani
October 3, 2023
