50 Facts About First Intifada

What Was the First Intifada?

The First Intifada was a significant uprising by Palestinians against Israeli occupation in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. It began in December 1987 and lasted until the early 1990s. This period was marked by widespread protests, civil disobedience, and violent clashes. Here are some key facts about this pivotal event:

1. The First Intifada started on December 9, 1987, following a traffic accident in Gaza that killed four Palestinians.
2. The word "Intifada" means "shaking off" in Arabic, symbolizing the Palestinians' desire to end Israeli occupation.
3. The uprising was characterized by mass demonstrations, strikes, and boycotts of Israeli products.
4. Youths, known as "Shabab," played a crucial role, often confronting Israeli soldiers with stones.
5. The Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) did not initially organize the Intifada but later became involved.
6. Women played a significant role, organizing protests and providing support to families of detainees.
7. The United Nations estimated that over 1,100 Palestinians were killed during the Intifada.
8. Approximately 160 Israelis, including civilians and soldiers, lost their lives in the conflict.
9. The Intifada led to the establishment of the Unified National Leadership of the Uprising (UNLU), which coordinated activities.
10. The Israeli government imposed curfews and used tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to quell the protests.

Key Events and Turning Points

Several events and turning points defined the course of the First Intifada. These moments had lasting impacts on both Palestinian and Israeli societies.

11. The killing of a Palestinian teenager by Israeli soldiers in December 1987 sparked widespread outrage.
12. In January 1988, the UNLU issued its first leaflet, calling for organized resistance.
13. The "Day of Rage" on February 16, 1988, saw massive protests across the occupied territories.
14. The Israeli army's use of "force, might, and beatings" policy, as ordered by Defense Minister Yitzhak Rabin, intensified the conflict.
15. The establishment of "popular committees" helped organize local resistance efforts.
16. In 1989, the PLO declared an independent Palestinian state, gaining international recognition.
17. The 1990 Temple Mount riots further escalated tensions, resulting in numerous casualties.
18. The Gulf War in 1991 shifted global attention but did not diminish the intensity of the Intifada.
19. The Madrid Conference in 1991 marked the first time Israel and Palestinian representatives engaged in direct negotiations.
20. The signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993 officially ended the First Intifada, leading to the creation of the Palestinian Authority.

Impact on Palestinian Society

The First Intifada had profound effects on Palestinian society, influencing politics, culture, and daily life.

21. The uprising fostered a sense of national unity among Palestinians.
22. It led to the emergence of new political factions, such as Hamas, which opposed the PLO's approach.
23. Education was disrupted, with many schools and universities closed due to strikes and curfews.
24. The economic impact was severe, with many Palestinians losing their jobs in Israel.
25. The Intifada brought international attention to the Palestinian cause, garnering sympathy and support.
26. Palestinian art and literature flourished, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of the people.
27. Women gained greater visibility and influence within Palestinian society.
28. The use of media, including underground newspapers and leaflets, became crucial for communication.
29. The Intifada led to the creation of numerous NGOs focused on human rights and social services.
30. The experience of the Intifada shaped the political consciousness of a generation of Palestinians.

Israeli Response and Consequences

Israel's response to the First Intifada was multifaceted, involving military, political, and social dimensions.

31. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) increased their presence in the occupied territories.
32. Israel implemented a policy of collective punishment, including house demolitions and mass arrests.
33. The economic blockade of Palestinian areas aimed to weaken the uprising.
34. Israeli society became deeply divided over the handling of the Intifada.
35. Peace movements within Israel, such as Peace Now, gained momentum.
36. The Intifada prompted a reevaluation of Israel's long-term strategy in the occupied territories.
37. The conflict strained Israel's relations with neighboring Arab countries.
38. The international community, including the United States, pressured Israel to engage in peace talks.
39. The Intifada highlighted the limitations of military solutions to political problems.
40. The Oslo Accords, resulting from the Intifada, represented a significant shift in Israeli-Palestinian relations.

Legacy of the First Intifada

The legacy of the First Intifada continues to influence the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader Middle East.

41. The Intifada demonstrated the power of grassroots movements in challenging occupation.
42. It set the stage for subsequent uprisings, including the Second Intifada in 2000.
43. The Oslo Accords, though controversial, established a framework for future negotiations.
44. The Intifada's emphasis on nonviolent resistance inspired similar movements worldwide.
45. It led to increased international awareness and advocacy for Palestinian rights.
46. The experiences of the Intifada are commemorated in Palestinian culture and history.
47. The conflict highlighted the need for a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian issue.
48. The Intifada's impact on Israeli society continues to shape political discourse and policy.
49. The lessons learned from the Intifada inform current strategies of both Palestinian and Israeli leaders.
50. The First Intifada remains a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

The Lasting Impact of the First Intifada

The First Intifada left a significant mark on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It wasn't just about the violent clashes; it also brought international attention to the plight of Palestinians. This period saw a rise in grassroots movements and civil disobedience, which highlighted the struggles of ordinary people. The Intifada also led to the Oslo Accords, a pivotal moment in the peace process. While peace remains elusive, the First Intifada reshaped the political landscape and influenced future negotiations. Understanding this period helps grasp the complexities of the ongoing conflict. The legacy of the First Intifada continues to influence current events, reminding us of the enduring quest for peace and justice in the region.