ISRAELI SETTLEMENT Meaning and
Definition
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Israeli settlement refers to a territorial establishment of Israeli civilian communities in areas within the internationally recognized boundaries of Israel or in territories that have been occupied by Israel since the Six-Day War of 1967, including the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights. These settlements are typically built by Israeli citizens and supported by the Israeli government in the form of infrastructure, economic incentives, and military protection.
The establishment of Israeli settlements in territories claimed by Palestinians is a contentious issue that has been a significant obstacle to peace negotiations in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Many consider these settlements to be illegal under international law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention. However, Israel disputes this interpretation and asserts these territories as rightfully part of its own sovereign territory.
Israeli settlements vary in size and nature, ranging from small agricultural outposts to large urbanized communities. They often consist of residential neighborhoods, schools, medical facilities, and industrial areas which are intended to serve Israeli citizens. The settlements are established with the aim of asserting Israeli control over the territories and expanding Jewish presence in these areas.
The expansion of Israeli settlements has sparked widespread criticism from the international community, arguing that it undermines the prospects for achieving a two-state solution and exacerbates tensions between Israelis and Palestinians. These settlements have led to numerous political, legal, and humanitarian challenges, as they are seen by many as an obstacle to achieving a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Etymology of ISRAELI SETTLEMENT
The word "Israeli settlement" refers to communities established by Israeli citizens in territories that are disputed or occupied, primarily in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The etymology can be understood by examining the components of the term:
1. Israeli: The word "Israeli" relates to Israel, which is the modern-day nation-state located in the eastern Mediterranean region. The term Israel itself has a complex etymology. is derived from the biblical figure Jacob, who was also known as Israel. The name "Israel" is rooted in Hebrew and can be translated as "perseveres with God" or "struggles with God". gained prominence from the biblical narrative in which Jacob wrestled with an angel and received the name Israel.
2. Settlement: The term "settlement" in this context refers to a community or group of people occupying a specific territory. The word "settlement" has a wider etymology beyond this specific usage.
