The conflict between Israel and Palestine has deep roots in history, dating back thousands of years to the time when the Israelites first a path for the first time in this country, then known as Canaan. It reached its peak in 1948, the year Israel declared its independence (Beinin). Since then, the volatile region of Palestine has become a battleground for war, terrorism and politics. Both countries have attempted to reach agreements, but so far neither has managed to achieve lasting peace. Since it is unlikely that neither Israel nor Palestine will completely abandon their lands to the other nation, a compromise must be found between the two. The conflict between Israel and Palestine cannot end unless Israel lifts trade restrictions in the Gaza Strip, ends the occupation and colonization of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank and , with Palestine, does not recognize the sovereignty of the other nation. This centuries-old conflict aims for Israel to lift unnecessary restrictions in the Gaza Strip. Although Israel officially lifted its occupation of the Gaza Strip in 2005, it still controls the borders and living conditions remain poor. This Arab territory measures only 40 km long and 16 km wide, yet is home to nearly 1.6 million inhabitants. (Life) Comparatively, it is only twice as big as Washington DC (Average). The unemployment rate is high, ranging from 30 to 58 percent depending on the age group. There is also a high dependency rate in Gaza, with more than half of the population under the age of eighteen. Most Palestinians living in Gaza cannot earn enough money to buy food for their families and rely on UN aid that provides them with rice and flour. (Life) ...... middle of paper ...... f their countries find a two-state solution. (Engraved-Lazi) While this is by no means a guarantee that Israel and Palestine declare each other's sovereignty, it is a step. If Israel and Palestine mutually recognize their ability to function as separate nation-states and reach an agreement on lifting Israeli occupation and trade restrictions, peace could finally come to the region. Although both nations have gone through economic difficulties, occupations and wars, recent events have shown that peace is possible. Right now, a new generation is growing up and preparing to take their place in the world. If peace in Palestine and Israel is to be achieved, it will depend on them. And one day, in the distant future, perhaps their descendants will teach their children about this centuries-old conflict and how it was resolved with a handshake and a fair resolution..