The Israeli-Palestinian conflict refers to the ongoing political tension and violence between Israelis and Palestinians in the Middle East, primarily centered around the issues of Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories, the status of Jerusalem, borders, and the right of return for Palestinian refugees. The conflict dates back to the late 19th century with the rise of Zionism and the desire to establish a Jewish homeland, which has clashed with Palestinian aspirations for self-determination and statehood. Both sides have engaged in multiple wars, uprisings, and negotiations over the years, with various peace initiatives and agreements being proposed and ultimately failing to achieve a lasting resolution. The conflict has also been exacerbated by external actors and regional dynamics, further complicating efforts to reach a comprehensive peace agreement. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, displacement of populations, and economic hardship for both Israelis and Palestinians, making it one of the most entrenched and deeply-rooted conflicts in the world.