West Bank

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West Bank in Palestine (%2Bclaimed)

Bethlehem

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Cave of the Patriarchs8

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King Hussein flying over Temple Mount when it was under Jordanian control

1947-UN-Partition-Plan-1949-Armistice-Comparison

Jericho from above

West Bank is a landlocked territory near the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, forming the bulk of the territory of the State of Palestine. The West Bank also shares borders with Israel to the east, south, and north, and by Jordan to the east. The West Bank was captured by Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967 but is internationally recognized as part of the Palestinian territories. The region has a rich history that dates back thousands of years and is considered a significant location for several major religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

History

The history of the West Bank is complex and deeply intertwined with the broader history of the Middle East. Historically, the area has been under the control of various powers, including the Ottoman Empire, the British Empire (under the British Mandate for Palestine), Jordan, and, most recently, Israel following the 1967 Six-Day War. The international community does not recognize Israel's sovereignty over the territory, and it is often referred to as occupied Palestinian territory.

Geography

The West Bank is characterized by a diverse topography that includes the Judean Mountains in the east, which descend to the Jordan River valley. The region has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and cool, wet winters. The area is also home to several important natural and historical sites, including the Dead Sea, the city of Jericho, and the Temple Mount in East Jerusalem.

Demographics

The population of the West Bank is predominantly Palestinian Arabs, including both Muslims and Christians. Hebrew and Arabic are the main languages spoken in the area. The West Bank is also home to a significant number of Israeli settlers, whose settlements are considered illegal under international law, though Israel disputes this.

Politics and Administration

The West Bank is divided into areas A, B, and C based on the Oslo Accords. Area A is under full Palestinian control, Area B is under Palestinian civil control and Israeli military control, and Area C, which comprises about 60% of the West Bank's territory, is under full Israeli control. The Palestinian Authority (PA) is recognized as the official governing body of the Palestinian population in the West Bank. However, the political situation is highly complex and remains a central issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Economy

The economy of the West Bank is diverse, with sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. However, the economy faces significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict, including restrictions on movement, access to resources, and trade barriers. International aid plays a significant role in the West Bank's economy.

Culture

The West Bank is a cultural melting pot, reflecting the various peoples who have lived in the region throughout history. It is known for its historic and religious sites, traditional music and dance, cuisine, and crafts. The city of Bethlehem, known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, and the ancient city of Jericho are among the key cultural and historical sites in the West Bank.

Challenges

The West Bank faces numerous challenges, including political instability, economic hardships, and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Issues such as settlement expansion, the Israeli West Bank barrier, water rights, and the status of Jerusalem continue to be major points of contention.