Why Does Israel Want All of Jerusalem?

The question of why Israel wants all of Jerusalem has long been a contentious issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Many mistakenly believe that Israel desires control over East Jerusalem, but such claims are often based on misunderstandings and misrepresentations of history and geography.

The Geography of Jerusalem

In the context of the former Mandate of Palestine, Jerusalem was recognized as the capital of the proposed Jewish state under the 1947 United Nations Partition Plan. However, the name 'East Jerusalem' was not part of any official designation or recognized area. This name appears to have been invented out of thin air, alongside the concept of a "state" named Palestine, which similarly lacked official recognition prior to its creation.

The confusion often stems from the division of Jerusalem during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, where Israeli forces controlled the western part of the city while Jordan controlled the eastern part. After the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel extended its control over the entire city, including East Jerusalem. However, this control remains a subject of intense debate and contention.

Israel's Jerusalem Policies

Despite common misconceptions, Israel does not actively seek to control all of Jerusalem in the sense often portrayed. While Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, is a significant focus of international criticism, the Israeli government official stance is that East Jerusalem is an integral part of the internationally recognized capital of Israel. This is a point that is emphasized legally and politically but remains a hotly debated issue in the international community.

Israel's policies in East Jerusalem include the expansion of Jewish-only settlements, the construction of the separation barrier, and efforts to alter the demography of the city. These actions have been criticized by many as violating international law and contributing to the humanitarian crisis faced by the Palestinian residents of the city. However, Israel's perspective is that these measures are necessary for security and the maintenance of Jerusalem as its capital.

International Reactions and Legal Status

The international community largely recognizes the 1967 borders as the basis for any potential resolution, with East Jerusalem being part of the Palestinian land. However, Israel's control over the city, particularly East Jerusalem, remains a contentious issue. Efforts to annex East Jerusalem face significant opposition and legal challenges, both within Israel and internationally.

It is crucial to understand that the desire for Jerusalem as the capital of Israel is deeply rooted in Jewish historical and religious significance. Many Israelis and Jews globally view Jerusalem as a divine inheritance, a city that holds profound spiritual and historical importance. This perspective often colors the debates around the city's governance and territorial control.

Conclusion

The idea that Israel wants all of Jerusalem and specifically controls East Jerusalem is a complex and often mischaracterized issue. While Israel does assert its control over the entire city, including East Jerusalem, this claim is contested and subject to ongoing political negotiations and international scrutiny. Understanding the historical, legal, and political nuances of the situation is essential for a comprehensive grasp of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the quest for a just and sustainable resolution.