Israel–Palestine Conflict Analysis: The Failures of Conflict Resolution Efforts

Abstract

The Israel–Palestine conflict is among the most protracted and complex disputes in modern history, rooted in competing nationalist claims, historical grievances, and unresolved questions of sovereignty and identity. Since the 1947 UN Partition Plan and the subsequent 1948 Arab–Israeli War, cycles of violence, displacement, and failed negotiations have shaped the political, social, and economic landscape of the Middle East. Numerous peace initiatives, including the Camp David Accords, Oslo Accords, Roadmap for Peace, and more recently the Abraham Accords, have sought to resolve the conflict. However, each has ultimately failed to achieve sustainable peace.

This study analyzes the Israel–Palestine conflict through the lens of John Burton’s Human Needs Theory and Johan Galtung’s Conflict Transformation approach, using a qualitative case study method. It identifies the historical origins of the conflict, examines the major resolution strategies attempted, and explores the recurring reasons behind their failures. Findings suggest that power asymmetry, unaddressed human needs, structural violence, geopolitical interference, and internal political divisions undermine peace efforts. The study concludes that sustainable resolution requires moving beyond short-term political settlements toward inclusive frameworks that address fundamental human needs, dismantle structural inequalities and promote long-term conflict transformation.