ABSTRACT
Unlike the conflict between Israel and the Arab states, the Israeli-Palestinian problem has not yet found a conceptual framework and machinery for even a partial and gradual settlement. The conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people has become the central and decisive issue for the prospects of peace and the future of the entire region. The pressure for a settlement was also exerted by the refugees themselves, who made up the majority of the Palestinian people. They demanded that the Arab governments “make peace if they can’t make war,” and they also offered Israel their support for a peace settlement based on the recognition of their rights. Endorsing a policy of “peace from strength,” the Labor leaders sacrificed their historical vision and far-sighted statesmanship for short-term and dubious war gains. The practices of the military administration in the West Bank voided the Zionist declarations on peace, justice, and nondomination.
