Why Pakistan and Israel’s Conflict Persists- Unraveling the Complexities of their Long-Standing Tensions
Why is Pakistan and Israel fighting? This question has intrigued scholars, policymakers, and the general public for decades. The conflict between these two nations is deeply rooted in historical, political, and religious factors that have shaped their relationship into one of the most complex and enduring conflicts in the modern world.
The origins of the conflict can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the British Empire controlled the region. During this period, Zionism, the movement to establish a Jewish state in Palestine, gained momentum. As the British prepared to withdraw from the region, the issue of who would control Palestine became a contentious point. The creation of Israel in 1948 led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, many of whom fled to neighboring countries, including Pakistan.
Since then, the conflict has been characterized by a series of wars, peace agreements, and broken promises. One of the primary reasons why Pakistan and Israel are fighting is the issue of Palestine. Pakistan has been a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause, viewing Israel as an occupying power in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. This stance has put Pakistan at odds with Israel, which views itself as a legitimate state with the right to defend its sovereignty.
Another factor contributing to the conflict is the regional power struggle. Pakistan and Israel have competing interests in the Middle East, particularly in relation to Iran. Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation, has sought to maintain a strategic balance in the region by developing close ties with Iran. Israel, on the other hand, has been wary of Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its support for Hezbollah and Hamas, two groups that Israel considers terrorist organizations.
Religious tensions also play a significant role in the conflict. Pakistan is an Islamic country with a significant Muslim population, while Israel is a Jewish state. The religious divide has led to mutual distrust and a sense of superiority among the two nations. This has made it difficult for them to find common ground and resolve their differences.
Furthermore, the issue of water resources has become a point of contention between Pakistan and Israel. Both nations are facing water scarcity, and the control over water resources in the region has become a source of conflict. Pakistan has accused Israel of collaborating with India to control the water supply in the region, which has further strained relations between the two nations.
In conclusion, the conflict between Pakistan and Israel is a complex issue with multiple layers of historical, political, and religious factors. The issue of Palestine remains at the heart of the conflict, with both nations having competing interests and deep-seated distrust. As long as these issues remain unresolved, the prospects for peace between Pakistan and Israel seem distant.
