Palestinian-Israeli Conflict

A Very Short Introduction

By: Martin Bunton

Narrated by: Neil Shah

Length: 4 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

The conflict between Palestine and Israel is one of the most highly publicized and bitter struggles in history. In this accessible and stimulating Very Short Introduction, Martin Bunton clearly explains the history of the problem, reducing it to its very essence - a modern territorial contest between two nations and one geographical territory.

Adopting a fresh and original approach, each section covers a 20-year span, to highlight the historical complexity of the conflict throughout successive decades. Each chapter starts with an examination of the relationships among people and events that marked particular years as historical moments in the evolution of the conflict, including the 1897 Basle Congress; the 1917 Balfour Declaration and British occupation of Palestine; and the 1947 UN Partition Plan and the war for Palestine.

Providing a clear and fair exploration of the main issues, Bunton explores not only the historical basis of the conflict, but also looks at how and why partition has been so difficult and how efforts to restore peace continue today.

©2013 Martin Bunton (P)2021 Tantor

Even-handed.

This book was released 10 years before October 06, 2023 yet it remains current. It shows, after over 100 years, how minorities of right-wing "religious" politicians - ON BOTH SIDES - have consistently head-faked their peoples and undermined peace and democracy. They want ONLY domination or destruction of the other side. It does NOT justify October 6th, 2023; but, it does - partially - show how we got there.

Awaiting a sequel!!!

Good way to learn the story from an objective viewpoint.
Needs a more engaging narrator- this guy’s reading is so monotonous

Equal representation

The book does a nice job presenting both the Israeli and the Palestinian sides equally. The narrator was not very engaging, but as a nonfictional timeline, he was easy to follow. The most significant flaw that I found in the book is that the author does not call out Hamas as a terrorist organization. Overall the book as a decent job explaining the last hundred years or so of the history behind the conflict. 

Understanding Is Painful!!

I will wear my mask to write this review because what I want to write might not help the current situation. So, here it is: Thank you Mr. Bunton. I appreciate you. To those debating on the purchase of this text - purchase it. If nothing else - you will gain more information.

2012 and Mr. Obama, Rock On!!!

Good History and Summary

Good objective breakdown of the history of the creation of the state of Israel and its ongoing conflicts and attempts at reconciliation with the original inhabitants, the Palestinians. It’s a bit difficult to listen to because it is somewhat dry and the narration is nearly toneless. On the other hand, it’s short so it’s bearable.

Can be summed up as neither side wants to compromise but both wish to appear as if compromise is an option.

A balanced, concise overview of the conflict.

Gives balanced summary of the positions of each side. Provides a better understanding of the issues and the intractable views of segments of both Palestinian and Israeli actors.

Informative Overview

This is a great and well thought out overview of the Middle East conflict. The narration was top notch with content that gave you a birds eye view of both sides. Everyone should take the time to understand the root cause of the issues Israel and Palestine face.

Very relevant in light of currrent events

Clear and concise summary of the complex history in the region, not taking anyone’s side (from mine as European’s perspective)

Very Biased

This is the most disappointing Very Short Introductions that I’ve read. Neglects the Israeli side of the argument.

Revisionist and biased account of the topic

Lots of detail is s impressive. The history shows an anti Israel account. There are much better reads on this topic. Not recommended.