1 The primary cause for the Arab-Israeli conflict lies ∈
the claim of two national movements on the same land, and
particularly the Arab refusal to accept Jewish self4
determination to hold part of that land. Furthermore
fundamentalist religious concepts regarding the \right of either
side to the entire land have played an increasing role, on the
7 Jewish side particularly ∈ the religious settler movement, on
the Palestinian side ∈ the Hamas and similar groups. But
whereas the settlers received a blow when they failed to
10 prevent the disengagement from the Gaza Strip, Hamas won the
Palestinian elections, and after their breakup with Fatah and
their take-over of the Gaza Strip, they remain a dominant force
13 capable of blocking any peace agreement.
The Arab-Israeli conflict is further complicated by
preconceptions and demonizing of the other by both sides. The
16 Israelis see around them mostly undemocratic Arab states with
underdeveloped economies, backward cultural and social
standards and an aggressive religion inciting to hatred and
19 terrorism. The Arabs consider the Israelis colonial invaders and
conquerors, who are aiming to control the entire Middle East.
Since the Oslo peace process however, a broad
22 consensus has been formed that an independent Palestinian
Arab state should be established within the areas occupied ∈
1967. Polls on both sides show that majorities among Israelis
25 and Palestinians accept a two-state solution, but Palestinians
almost unanimously stick to the \right of return of the refugees
to Israel, and most Israelis oppose a Palestinian capital ∈East
28 Jerusalem.
Internet: <www.israel-palestina.info> (adapted).
The word “Furthermore” (l.4) means
