In a paragraph of 5–7 sentences, choose two of the nations involved in the conflict
and critique their actions. Are their actions justified or unjustified? Legal or illegal?
Moral or immoral? How does the evidence in your sources support your critique?
In the conflict between Israel and Palestine, both nations' actions can be critiqued from different perspectives. When examining Israel's actions, some argue that they are justified due to their right to self-defense. Israel has faced numerous threats from terrorist groups operating from the Gaza Strip, such as Hamas, which has launched rockets targeting civilian areas. Furthermore, Israel also argues that its actions are legal under international law as they maintain military control over the West Bank and Gaza Strip for security reasons. However, critics argue that Israel's actions are unjustified as they have used excessive force and been involved in territorial expansion, challenging the moral aspect of their actions.
Palestine's actions, on the other hand, are often seen as justified by those who sympathize with their struggle for self-determination and the desire to establish an independent state. Palestinians argue that their actions are in response to the occupation and colonization of their land by Israel, which they claim is illegal and immoral. Critics, however, argue that Palestine's actions are unjustified due to their involvement in acts of terrorism, such as suicide bombings and rocket attacks against Israeli civilians, which undermine their cause and violate international law.
The evidence in various sources supports these critiques. For instance, reports by human rights organizations document cases of excessive use of force by Israeli security forces against Palestinians, leading to civilian casualties. On the other hand, incidents of terrorism against Israelis are also well-documented. International legal frameworks such as the Fourth Geneva Convention highlight the illegality of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, while also condemning acts of terrorism against civilians.
Overall, the critique of both Israel and Palestine's actions in the conflict is multifaceted and depends on one's perspective. While some find their actions justified, legal, or moral to varying degrees, others argue the opposite based on the evidence available from different sources.