This week marks the 56th anniversary of the 1967 Six-Day War, and with it, the beginning of Israel’s ongoing occupation of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.
If you are confused about the occupation, J Street’s Policy Center has written a concise background brief with key information to help clarify your confusion. The brief answers the following questions:
- What is the definition of occupation under international law?
- Does Israel occupy the West Bank? What about East Jerusalem?
- Does Israel occupy the Gaza Strip, even after its unilateral disengagement in 2005?
- Is there international consensus around the fact that Israel occupies the West Bank (including East Jerusalem) and Gaza?
- What is the position of the US government on occupation?
- What are Israel’s responsibilities as an occupying power under international law?
- What are some activities that are illegal for Israel as occupying power?
- How does Israel administer the occupation? Why does military or civilian control matter?
“Frequently Asked Questions: The Israeli Occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.”
Rabbi John Rosove's Blog 
Good news Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will visit China next week as China is willing to negotiate a peace treaty between Palestine and Israel. They’ve done it for several other countries in the middle-east. Let’s wish they find a way for this long battle to come to an end.