Treatment of Palestinians

Context and Security Measures:

- Security Concerns: Israel’s restrictions on movement, including checkpoints and the security barrier, are driven by security concerns. These measures were significantly heightened following the Second Intifada (2000-2005), a period marked by numerous suicide bombings and terrorist attacks targeting Israeli civilians. Just to give context, in the year 2002 alone, there were 53 suicide bombing attacks that killed 189 Israelis; aside from other terrorist attacks that killed a total of 452 that year alone.

- Reduction in Terrorism: Since the construction of the security barrier, there has been a substantial decrease in terrorist attacks. This demonstrates the necessity of such measures to protect Israeli lives. Once the the barrier wall was built - suicide attacks went down to zero.

Efforts to Improve Living Conditions:

- Humanitarian Aid: Israel regularly facilitates the transfer of goods, medical supplies, and humanitarian aid to Gaza and Judea & Samaria (West Bank). For instance, in 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Israel coordinated the delivery of thousands of tons of medical supplies and personal protective equipment.

- Economic Initiatives: Programs such as the Judea and Samaria (West Bank) and Gaza Strip employment initiatives aim to provide job opportunities and boost the local economy. Israel issues work permits to thousands of Palestinians, allowing them to work in Israel where wages are higher. Keep in mind that after Hamas carried out that October 7th massacre against Israel, with the backing of the majority of Palestinians, Israel stopped allowing Palestinians workers into the country -- the act of aggression by Palestinian terrorists of Hamas worsened the economic situation for Palestinians.

- Infrastructure Projects: Joint Israeli-Palestinian projects have been developed to improve infrastructure, such as water and electricity supply. The Red Sea-Dead Sea Water Conveyance Project, for example, is aimed at addressing water scarcity in the region.

COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories): COGAT plays a crucial role in facilitating and overseeing various humanitarian and infrastructure projects in Palestinian territories. For example, COGAT has been involved in the installation and maintenance of water pipelines to Palestinian villages. This includes projects that enhance access to clean water and improve agricultural irrigation, directly benefiting Palestinian communities.

Impact of Palestinian Leadership Decisions:

- Hamas in Gaza: The governance of Gaza by Hamas, a recognized terrorist organization, has significantly impacted the humanitarian situation. Hamas has diverted international aid and resources towards its military infrastructure instead of civilian needs.

- Internal Palestinian Politics: The political division between the Palestinian Authority (PA) in the Judea & Samaria (West Bank) and Hamas in Gaza has led to administrative inefficiencies and a lack of coherent policy-making, adversely affecting Palestinian lives.

- Corruption and Mismanagement: Reports of corruption within the PA have highlighted the misuse of international aid and resources meant for development and humanitarian relief. For example, in 2016, PA officials were involved in taking funds from international donors.

Comparative Analysis:

- Regional Comparisons: The living conditions of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, despite challenges, often surpass those in neighboring Arab countries where refugees face systemic discrimination and lack basic rights. For instance, Palestinians in Lebanon face severe restrictions on employment, property ownership, and access to public services. Ain al-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp, is a great example of that. The Lebanese government built an apartheid wall around that camp, to block Palestinians - but no media attention was given.

Legal and International Perspectives:

- Legal Frameworks: Israel operates within a complex legal framework that includes international law, Israeli law, and military law applicable to Judea and Samaria. Efforts are made to balance security needs with humanitarian considerations.

- Supreme Court Oversight: The Israeli Supreme Court frequently reviews cases related to the treatment of Palestinians, including home demolitions and movement restrictions, ensuring that actions comply with legal standards and human rights obligations.

The treatment of Palestinians must be viewed through the lens of security, humanitarian efforts, and the impact of Palestinian leadership. While there are legitimate concerns, many of the measures taken by Israel are responses to security threats and challenges posed by the complex political landscape.