Palestinian-Israeli Conflict: Department of Defense Role in a Two-State Solution

Abstract

Abstract : The Palestinian question is important not only to Palestinians and Israelis, but to many countries and non-state actors in the region and around the world, to include the U.S. U.S. policy toward the Palestinians is marked by efforts to establish a Palestinian state through a negotiated two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and to establish norms of democracy, accountability, and good governance within the Palestinian Authority. The continuous violence between Palestinian militants and the Israeli Defense Forces has disrupted the peace process. Until the Palestinian government establishes complete authority in both the West Bank and Gaza strip, peace cannot not be attained. An integral part of Palestinian authority is the provision of credible security forces. Within this context, an opportunity has emerged for the Department of Defense, as the lead agency, to provide security assistance to develop a long-term counter-terrorism capacity and capabilities. This paper examines the whole of government efforts to assist in the Palestinian security force development. Recommendations are presented to transition the program into the next logical phases and prepare it for future requirements.