Jewish settlements: Another name for occupation

Abstract

Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been one of the main issues of the Middle Eastern political agenda. The Israeli-Palestinian issue is a complex matter as it comprises of many disputed issues. The status of Jerusalem, condition of the Palestinian refugees, and Jewish settlements problems as well as many other disagreements pose an obstacle against the Peace Process which is of vital importance for the stability of the Middle East. Each of these issues needs special attention in the path going through to the Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process. Jewish Settlements stands as one of the main handicaps against an agreement between Israel and Palestine. 1967 onwards, Israeli state keeps on constructing settlements in the occupied territories and even expand its borders via this policy. In this regard, the settlement issue is more than being just a barrier to peace but a key to success in the peace negotiations in case of its resolution. However, despite the both parties to the dispute are aware of this, Israel does not seem so willing to give up settlement policy. Although it declares settlement freeze decisions from time to time, nonstop construction of outposts continues. The article, in this respect, aims to provide a historical overview of the Jewish settlements policy and its impacts on the Palestinian and Peace Process