Discuss the impact of the capture of the Western Wall during the 1967 Six-Day War on the Arab-Israeli conflict.

The capture of the Western Wall during the 1967 Six-Day War significantly intensified the Arab-Israeli conflict, leading to increased tensions and territorial disputes.

The Six-Day War of 1967 was a pivotal event in the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict. The war resulted in Israel's capture of several territories, including the Gaza Strip, the Sinai Peninsula, the West Bank, and the Golan Heights. However, the capture of the Western Wall in Jerusalem had a profound impact on the conflict, as it held immense religious and symbolic significance for both Jews and Muslims.

For Jews, the Western Wall is the last remaining part of the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD, making it the holiest site in Judaism. Its capture was seen as a moment of national and religious triumph, reinforcing the Zionist narrative of Jewish return and redemption. This event also led to a shift in Israeli national consciousness, with a greater emphasis on the religious and historical connection to the land.

For Muslims, the Western Wall is part of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, the third holiest site in Islam. Its capture by Israel was seen as a violation of Muslim rights and an affront to Arab and Islamic identity. This event fuelled anti-Israel sentiments in the Arab world and became a rallying point for Palestinian nationalism.

The capture of the Western Wall also had significant geopolitical implications. It marked the beginning of Israel's occupation of East Jerusalem, leading to a protracted territorial dispute that continues to this day. The status of Jerusalem has been one of the most contentious issues in the Arab-Israeli conflict, with both sides claiming it as their capital.

Furthermore, the capture of the Western Wall led to a shift in the dynamics of the conflict. It transformed the Arab-Israeli conflict from a primarily political and territorial dispute into a religious and existential one. This shift has made the conflict more intractable, as it involves deeply held beliefs and identities that are not easily compromised.

In conclusion, the capture of the Western Wall during the 1967 Six-Day War had a profound impact on the Arab-Israeli conflict. It intensified the conflict by adding a religious dimension to the political and territorial disputes, and it continues to be a source of tension and contention between Israelis and Palestinians.