When researching the conflict between the Israeli and Palestinian people, different countries presented the fighting in different ways. In order to be nonbiased when reading about the history of the conflict, one must understand that while anger and a desire for land play a role in the fighting these are not the main causes of the conflict. It is necessary to look beyond these common myths in order to look for the true causes of the killing. A deep underlying truth that could explain some reason for this chaos is that neither side has come to terms with living with each other. Therefore, the two groups" cultures clash while fighting to gain power and prestige for their people. The ethnic conflict in the Middle East dates back to biblical times as both the Israeli and the Palestinian nations claim territories in the area of Palestine from over two thousand years ago. Because of the religious significance of many of its sites to both religions and nations, Jerusalem is by far the most heavily disputed area. This conflict still continues today.
While planning for WWI peace treaties, Great Britain proclaimed the Balfour Declaration in 1917, which stated that Britain would create a national homeland for the Jews. Following WWI, Palestine became a mandate of Great Britain under the authority of the League of Nations. A limited number of Jews were allowed to enter Palestine, and Jews felt that Britain should be more effective in bringing Jews in. At the same time, the Arabs wanted no part in Jewish immigration to a nation they viewed as their homeland. And during the next couple decades, the violence, hatred, and bloodshed escalated to unimaginable heights (Mideast 5-6). .
Following WWII, Great Britain decided to withdraw its troops from Palestine and disregard the responsibility given by the League of Nations for its inability to contain the endless violence between the Palestinians and the Jews.
