In what ways did the Oslo Accords affect the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict?

The Oslo Accords significantly altered the Arab-Israeli conflict by establishing mutual recognition and a framework for peace negotiations.

The Oslo Accords, signed in 1993 and 1995, were a pivotal moment in the Arab-Israeli conflict. They marked the first direct, face-to-face agreement between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), which was representative of the Palestinian people. The Accords had a profound impact on the conflict, primarily by establishing mutual recognition between the two parties. For the first time, Israel recognised the PLO as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, and the PLO recognised Israel's right to exist in peace and security.

The Accords also laid out a framework for future peace negotiations. They proposed a five-year transitional period during which Israel would gradually withdraw from parts of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, and the Palestinians would gain self-rule in these areas through the establishment of the Palestinian Authority. This was seen as a significant step towards a two-state solution, which had been a long-standing goal of the international community.

However, the Oslo Accords also had some negative effects on the Arab-Israeli conflict. They were criticised for being vague and lacking in detail, particularly regarding key issues such as the status of Jerusalem, the right of return for Palestinian refugees, and the borders of a future Palestinian state. This lack of clarity led to disagreements and tensions, which ultimately contributed to the failure of the peace process.

Furthermore, the Accords were met with opposition from both sides. Many Israelis were concerned about the security implications of withdrawing from the occupied territories, while many Palestinians felt that the Accords did not go far enough in addressing their demands for independence and sovereignty. This led to a rise in violence and extremism, including the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin by a right-wing Israeli extremist in 1995.

In conclusion, the Oslo Accords had a significant impact on the Arab-Israeli conflict. They marked a major shift in the relationship between Israel and the Palestinians, establishing mutual recognition and a framework for peace negotiations. However, they also highlighted the complexities and challenges of resolving this long-standing conflict, and their ultimate failure underscored the need for a comprehensive and detailed agreement that addresses all the key issues.