Test On Middle East
End of Unit Test on Middle East; focus on Israel and Palestine
- 1.
According to the map, what city most likely experiences the most conflict over religion?
- A.
Jerusalem
- B.
Mecca
- C.
Medina
- D.
Nazareth
Correct Answer
A. JerusalemExplanation
Jerusalem is most likely to experience the most conflict over religion because it is considered a holy city by three major religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This has led to ongoing tensions and disputes over control and access to religious sites, such as the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The city has a long history of religious conflicts and is often at the center of political and religious disputes between different groups.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of the following countries is NOT on the Arabian Peninsula?
- A.
Saudi Arabia
- B.
Yemen
- C.
Iran
- D.
Kuwait
Correct Answer
C. IranExplanation
Iran is not on the Arabian Peninsula because it is located in the Middle East, specifically in Western Asia. The Arabian Peninsula is a region in Southwest Asia, consisting of countries such as Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and others. While Iran is a neighboring country to the Arabian Peninsula, it is not considered part of it geographically.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What nation has the world's largest oil preserves?
- A.
Venezuela
- B.
Iraq
- C.
Kuwait
- D.
Saudi Arabia
Correct Answer
D. Saudi ArabiaExplanation
Saudi Arabia has the world's largest oil reserves. The country is known for its vast oil fields, particularly the Ghawar field, which is the largest conventional oil field in the world. Saudi Arabia's oil reserves are estimated to be around 268 billion barrels, accounting for approximately 16% of the global oil reserves. The country's oil industry plays a crucial role in its economy and has made Saudi Arabia one of the leading oil-producing nations in the world.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following were the early inhabitants of Saudi Arabia?
- A.
Bedouin nomads
- B.
Berber nomads
- C.
Mongol nomads
- D.
Turk nomads
Correct Answer
A. Bedouin nomadsExplanation
The early inhabitants of Saudi Arabia were Bedouin nomads. Bedouins are a group of Arab nomads who traditionally live in the desert areas of the Arabian Peninsula. They are known for their nomadic lifestyle, moving from place to place in search of water and grazing land for their livestock. Bedouins have a rich cultural heritage and have played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of Saudi Arabia.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following was the early Muslim empire that was founded in Turkey in the 1300s which ruled much of the Middle East until it was on the losing side in WWI?
- A.
Arab
- B.
Berber
- C.
Ottoman
- D.
Turkish
Correct Answer
C. OttomanExplanation
The correct answer is Ottoman. The Ottoman Empire was founded in Turkey in the 1300s and it ruled much of the Middle East until it was on the losing side in World War I.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which group of people were exiled from their homeland in ancient times until after WWII, when the UN founded the current nation of Israel for their homeland?
- A.
Arabs
- B.
Bedouins
- C.
Jews/Israelis
- D.
Slavs
Correct Answer
C. Jews/IsraelisExplanation
The correct answer is Jews/Israelis. Jews were exiled from their homeland in ancient times and faced persecution throughout history. After World War II, the United Nations founded the current nation of Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people. This allowed Jews to return to their ancestral land and establish a sovereign state.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A theocracy is a government run by
- A.
A dictator
- B.
A religious leader
- C.
A king
- D.
The people
Correct Answer
B. A religious leaderExplanation
A theocracy is a form of government where religious leaders hold the highest authority and are in charge of running the government. They make decisions based on religious beliefs and principles, and their power is derived from their position as religious leaders. In a theocracy, the religious leader or leaders have the ultimate control and influence over the government and its policies. This differs from other forms of government where power may be held by a dictator, king, or the people themselves.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following best describes the geography of the Arabian Peninsula and much of the Middle East?
- A.
High mountain area year round snow
- B.
Lush forests with lakes and rivers
- C.
Some desert, but many rich oasis
- D.
Dry desert lands with no permanent rivers
Correct Answer
D. Dry desert lands with no permanent riversExplanation
The correct answer is dry desert lands with no permanent rivers. The Arabian Peninsula and much of the Middle East are characterized by arid and dry desert landscapes, with limited water resources and no permanent rivers. This region is known for its vast stretches of desert, such as the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) and the Arabian Desert, where water scarcity is a major challenge. The lack of permanent rivers further contributes to the aridity and challenges of sustaining agriculture and human settlements in this region.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following explains how the Muslim religion originated and spread throughout the Middle East and Northern Africa?
- A.
The Prophet Muhammad spread Islam, it spread along trade routes, and then the Muslim Ottoman empire took control
- B.
The Bedouin nomads spread the Islamic faith throughout the peninsula
- C.
OPEC passed laws requiring all people to convert to Islam
- D.
The Shah of Arabia converted to Islam and required all of his subjects to do the same
Correct Answer
A. The Prophet Muhammad spread Islam, it spread along trade routes, and then the Muslim Ottoman empire took controlExplanation
The correct answer explains the origin and spread of the Muslim religion through three key factors. Firstly, it states that the Prophet Muhammad played a significant role in spreading Islam. Secondly, it mentions that Islam spread along trade routes, indicating that commercial interactions facilitated its dissemination. Lastly, it highlights the Muslim Ottoman empire, suggesting that their control and influence further contributed to the spread of Islam in the Middle East and Northern Africa.Rate this question:
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- 10.
OPEC can best be described as
- A.
The nomadic herding people of Southwest Asia
- B.
A title for a king of Iran or Persia
- C.
The current capital city of Iraq
- D.
An organization of nations that coordinate policies on selling petroleum
Correct Answer
D. An organization of nations that coordinate policies on selling petroleumExplanation
OPEC, which stands for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, is an organization that consists of several nations that coordinate their policies on selling petroleum. They work together to regulate the production and pricing of oil in order to maintain stability in the global oil market. By collaborating, they aim to ensure fair prices for both producers and consumers and to protect the interests of oil-exporting countries.Rate this question:
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- 11.
How does OPEC control oil and gas prices world wide?
- A.
By buying up all the oil from competing companies
- B.
By controlling the amount of oil that is produced
- C.
By bombing the oil wells of competing companies
- D.
By refusing to trade with western countries
Correct Answer
B. By controlling the amount of oil that is producedExplanation
OPEC controls oil and gas prices worldwide by controlling the amount of oil that is produced. By limiting the supply of oil, OPEC can create a situation of high demand and low supply, which drives up prices. This strategy allows OPEC to have a significant influence on global oil prices and maintain their market dominance.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The majority religion and the main language in the Middle East are...
- A.
Judaism and Hebrew
- B.
Christianity and Arabic
- C.
Islam and Hebrew
- D.
Islam and Arabic
Correct Answer
D. Islam and ArabicExplanation
Islam is the majority religion in the Middle East, with a significant number of Muslims residing in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq. Arabic is the main language spoken in the region, serving as the liturgical language of Islam and being widely spoken by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. This combination of Islam and Arabic as the majority religion and main language in the Middle East is a result of historical, cultural, and religious factors that have shaped the region over centuries.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A scarce resource that has caused many conflicts in the Middle East region is
- A.
Coal
- B.
Timber
- C.
Water
- D.
Soil
Correct Answer
C. WaterExplanation
Water is a scarce resource that has caused many conflicts in the Middle East region. The region is known for its arid climate and limited water sources, making access to water a critical issue. The scarcity of water has led to disputes over water rights and usage, with countries and communities competing for limited water supplies. Additionally, the demand for water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use has put further strain on the already limited resources, exacerbating the conflicts in the region.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Iran's government after the Shah was overthrown in 1979 is now ruled by a religious leader who enforces strict Muslim religious laws. This is an example of which type of government?
- A.
Democracy
- B.
Theocracy
- C.
Oligarchy
- D.
Monarchy
Correct Answer
B. TheocracyExplanation
After the Shah was overthrown in 1979, Iran's government is now ruled by a religious leader who enforces strict Muslim religious laws. This indicates that Iran's government is a theocracy, where religious leaders hold the ultimate authority and religious laws govern the state.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The earliest civilizations of south west Asia developed in which location?
- A.
Along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers
- B.
In the mountainous northern region
- C.
In the desert regions
- D.
On the highest plateaus
Correct Answer
A. Along the Tigris and Euphrates riversExplanation
The earliest civilizations of southwest Asia developed along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This is because these rivers provided a reliable source of water for agriculture, which allowed for the development of settled communities and the growth of civilization. The rivers also facilitated trade and transportation, further contributing to the development of these early civilizations.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Saudi Arabia and many other Middle Eastern nations have economies that are largely dependent on...
- A.
Ancient trade routes
- B.
Heavy industry
- C.
Tourism
- D.
Petroleum/oil
Correct Answer
D. Petroleum/oilExplanation
Saudi Arabia and many other Middle Eastern nations have economies that are largely dependent on petroleum/oil. This is because these countries have vast reserves of oil, which they extract and export to generate significant revenue. The oil industry plays a crucial role in their economic development, contributing to their GDP, government revenue, and job creation. The abundance of oil resources has allowed these countries to invest in various sectors and infrastructure projects, making petroleum/oil the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 17.
All of the following are true about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict EXCEPT which one?
- A.
The Palestinians have dominated the conflict
- B.
They fight over land and religion
- C.
They have been in conflict since the birth of Israel in 1947
- D.
The Israelis have much higher economic development than the Palestinians
Correct Answer
A. The Palestinians have dominated the conflictExplanation
The given answer states that the Palestinians have not dominated the conflict, which means that they have not been the dominant or controlling party in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This implies that the conflict has not been primarily led or controlled by the Palestinians.Rate this question:
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- 18.
One similarity between Israel and Palestine is
- A.
They both claim their ancestors lived on the same land
- B.
They share the same religious beliefs and practices
- C.
They are from the same ethic backgrounds
- D.
They all speak a common language
Correct Answer
A. They both claim their ancestors lived on the same landExplanation
Israel and Palestine both claim that their ancestors lived on the same land. This suggests that both groups have a historical connection to the region and believe they have a legitimate claim to the land. This shared belief in ancestral ties could contribute to the ongoing conflict between the two sides, as each group feels a deep sense of attachment and ownership to the land.Rate this question:
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- 19.
How is Saudi Arabia different from both Iran and Iraq?
- A.
It is a Muslim country
- B.
It is an Arab country
- C.
It is a monarchy
- D.
It is in Southwest Asia
Correct Answer
C. It is a monarchyExplanation
Saudi Arabia is different from both Iran and Iraq because it is a monarchy. While all three countries are Muslim and Arab, Saudi Arabia stands out as a monarchy, with a ruling royal family. This means that the country is governed by a king or queen, who holds ultimate power and authority. In contrast, Iran is an Islamic Republic, with a Supreme Leader and a President, while Iraq is a parliamentary republic with a President and a Prime Minister. Thus, the presence of a monarchy sets Saudi Arabia apart from its neighboring countries.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Why is Iran's government considered a theocracy?
- A.
It has no constitution
- B.
It is run by religious leaders
- C.
It is run by a dictator
- D.
It is a developing country
Correct Answer
B. It is run by religious leadersExplanation
Iran's government is considered a theocracy because it is run by religious leaders. In a theocracy, religious leaders have the ultimate authority and play a significant role in the governance and decision-making processes of the country. In the case of Iran, the Supreme Leader, who is a religious figure, holds the highest political and religious authority. The government's policies and laws are influenced by Islamic principles and religious interpretations, making it a theocratic system of governance.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which statement is true about Iraq?
- A.
They currently has a monarchy
- B.
Iraqis follow Judaism
- C.
They have a developing democracy
- D.
Baghdad is home to three major monotheistic religions
Correct Answer
C. They have a developing democracyExplanation
The statement "They have a developing democracy" is true about Iraq. This means that Iraq is in the process of establishing and strengthening its democratic system of government. It suggests that Iraq is transitioning from a previous form of government, such as a dictatorship or authoritarian regime, towards a more democratic system that respects the rights and freedoms of its citizens.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The majority of the people in Israel are _________________ and speak ____________________.
- A.
Muslim and Hebrew
- B.
Muslim and Arabic
- C.
Jewish and Arabic
- D.
Jewish and Hebrew
Correct Answer
D. Jewish and HebrewExplanation
The majority of the people in Israel are Jewish and speak Hebrew. This is because Israel is predominantly a Jewish state, with the Jewish population comprising the largest religious group. Hebrew is the official language of Israel and is spoken by the majority of the population.Rate this question:
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- 23.
What is anti-semitism?
- A.
A group of people who believe that whites are a superior race
- B.
Hatred of Jewish people
- C.
Followers of Judaism
- D.
A group of Arab speaking Muslims
Correct Answer
B. Hatred of Jewish peopleExplanation
Anti-Semitism refers to the prejudice, discrimination, or hostility directed towards Jewish people based on their religion, ethnicity, or cultural background. It involves the belief in and promotion of negative stereotypes, conspiracy theories, and the denial of Jewish rights and humanity. This form of hatred has historical roots and has manifested itself in various ways, including violence, persecution, and exclusion. It is important to combat anti-Semitism and promote tolerance, understanding, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What is Zionism?
- A.
A movement to establish a Jewish homeland
- B.
A movement to establish a Palestinian homeland
- C.
A group of Arabic-speaking Muslims
- D.
A time when Jewish people were exiled from their homeland and spread around the world
Correct Answer
A. A movement to establish a Jewish homelandExplanation
Zionism refers to the movement that aimed to establish a Jewish homeland. It emerged in the late 19th century, primarily in response to growing anti-Semitism and the desire for Jews to have a safe haven of their own. The movement gained momentum and eventually led to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. Zionism sought to address the historical displacement and persecution of Jewish people by advocating for the creation of a Jewish state in their ancestral homeland.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which best describes the time period known as the Diaspora in Jewish history?
- A.
A time when Jewish people were exiled from their homeland and spread around the world
- B.
A group of Arabic-speaking Muslims living in the contested regions of Israel
- C.
A movement to establish a Palestinian homeland
- D.
A movement to establish an Israeli homeland
Correct Answer
A. A time when Jewish people were exiled from their homeland and spread around the worldExplanation
The correct answer is a time when Jewish people were exiled from their homeland and spread around the world. The Diaspora refers to the period in Jewish history when the Jewish people were forced to leave their homeland, primarily due to the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 CE. This led to the dispersion of Jewish communities throughout different regions of the world. The term "Diaspora" is often used to describe the Jewish experience of exile and the subsequent establishment of Jewish communities in various countries.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Who are Palestinians?
- A.
A group of Arabic-speaking Muslims living in the contested regions of Israel
- B.
A time when Jewish people were exiled from their homeland and spread around the world
- C.
A movement to establish a Palestinian homeland
- D.
A movement to establish an Israeli homeland
Correct Answer
A. A group of Arabic-speaking Muslims living in the contested regions of IsraelExplanation
The Palestinians are a group of Arabic-speaking Muslims living in the contested regions of Israel. This refers to the population of Palestinian Arabs who reside in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, as well as those living in Israel proper. They have deep historical and cultural ties to the region and have been involved in a long-standing conflict with Israel over land and self-determination. The term "Palestinians" encompasses not only Muslims but also Christians and other religious groups who identify as Palestinian.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which two countries have the second and third largest oil reserves in the region?
- A.
Iran and Iraq
- B.
Kuwait and Iran
- C.
Yemen and Oman
- D.
United Arab Emirates and Yemen
Correct Answer
A. Iran and IraqExplanation
Iran and Iraq have the second and third largest oil reserves in the region. This means that these two countries have the second and third highest amount of oil reserves, respectively, among the given options. The other countries mentioned in the options do not have the same level of oil reserves as Iran and Iraq.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Use this graph to answer the next 2 questions In which country is oil income the largest percentage of gross domestic product (GDP)?
- A.
Bahrain
- B.
Kuwait
- C.
Qatar
- D.
Saudi Arabia
Correct Answer
A. BahrainExplanation
Bahrain has the largest percentage of oil income as a percentage of its gross domestic product (GDP). This means that a significant portion of Bahrain's GDP comes from revenue generated by the oil industry.Rate this question:
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- 29.
In which countries is oil income the smallest percentage of GDP?
- A.
Bahrain and Kuwait
- B.
Kuwait and Saudi Arabia
- C.
Qatar and Bahrain
- D.
Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates
Correct Answer
D. Saudi Arabia and United Arab EmiratesExplanation
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have the smallest percentage of oil income compared to their GDP. This means that their economies are less reliant on oil revenue compared to the other countries listed. This could be due to a more diversified economy, where they have successfully developed other sectors such as finance, tourism, and manufacturing.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which country is projected to have the largest supply of water in 2050?
- A.
Saudi Arabia
- B.
Israel
- C.
Kuwait
- D.
Jordan
Correct Answer
B. IsraelExplanation
Israel is projected to have the largest supply of water in 2050. This is because Israel has implemented innovative water management techniques, such as desalination and water recycling, to address its water scarcity issues. These techniques have allowed Israel to effectively utilize its limited water resources and ensure a sustainable water supply for its population. As a result, Israel is expected to have a significant water surplus by 2050, making it the country with the largest water supply.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which country is projected to have the least water supply by the year 2050?
- A.
Saudi Arabia
- B.
Israel
- C.
Kuwait
- D.
Jordan
Correct Answer
C. KuwaitExplanation
Kuwait is projected to have the least water supply by the year 2050. This could be due to several factors such as a rapidly growing population, limited freshwater sources, and high water consumption rates. Kuwait is a desert country with very limited natural water resources, relying heavily on desalination and water importation. The increasing demand for water coupled with the limited availability of freshwater sources makes Kuwait vulnerable to water scarcity in the future.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Which statement is true about the graph above?
- A.
Every country's supply of water will return to normal levels by 2050.
- B.
Overall, the level of water supplies are increasing for the population of the Middle East.
- C.
Overall, there will be less water in the future for people who live in the Middle East than what it had in 1990
Correct Answer
C. Overall, there will be less water in the future for people who live in the Middle East than what it had in 1990Explanation
The graph shows a decreasing trend in water supplies for the Middle East over time. This suggests that in the future, there will be less water available for people living in the Middle East compared to the levels it had in 1990.Rate this question:
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- 33.
According to the literacy data in this chart, which of the Middle Eastern countries would you expect to have the highest HDI ranking?
- A.
Qatar
- B.
Jordan
- C.
Libya
- D.
Egypt
Correct Answer
B. JordanExplanation
Based on the literacy data in the chart, Jordan would be expected to have the highest HDI ranking among the Middle Eastern countries listed. This is because literacy rates are often considered an important factor in determining a country's level of human development. Higher literacy rates indicate a more educated population, which can lead to increased economic productivity, better healthcare outcomes, and overall human development. Therefore, Jordan's higher literacy rate compared to the other countries suggests that it may have a higher HDI ranking.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Name the only three Middle Eastern countries that have democratic governments
- A.
Syria, Lebanon, Israel
- B.
Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia
- C.
Israel, Iraq, Turkey
- D.
Yemen, United Arab Emirates, Israel
Correct Answer
C. Israel, Iraq, TurkeyExplanation
The correct answer is Israel, Iraq, Turkey. These three countries have democratic governments in the Middle East. Israel has a parliamentary system, Iraq has a federal parliamentary republic, and Turkey has a parliamentary republic. These countries have regular elections, multiple political parties, and a separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which Middle Eastern country has the highest Human Development Index ranking and does not depend on oil for a strong economy?
- A.
Jordan
- B.
Qatar
- C.
Israel
- D.
Saudi Arabia
Correct Answer
C. IsraelExplanation
Israel has the highest Human Development Index ranking among the given options. Despite being located in the Middle East, Israel has managed to develop a strong economy that is not solely dependent on oil. It has a diverse and innovative economy, with major sectors including technology, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and tourism. Israel's emphasis on education, research, and development has contributed to its high human development and economic success.Rate this question:
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- 36.
What is the reason the Israelis give for building the West Bank Barrier?
- A.
To prevent Israeli civilian deaths due to suicide bomb attacks by Palestinian extremists
- B.
To create a clear political boundary between Israeli and Palestinian territories
- C.
To prevent Palestinians from reaching the Muslim places of worship in Jerusalem
- D.
To make it difficult for Palestinians to commute between their homes, businesses, and schools
Correct Answer
A. To prevent Israeli civilian deaths due to suicide bomb attacks by Palestinian extremistsExplanation
The Israelis give the reason for building the West Bank Barrier as a measure to prevent Israeli civilian deaths caused by suicide bomb attacks carried out by Palestinian extremists. The barrier serves as a physical barrier to hinder the access of extremists into Israeli territory, reducing the risk of such attacks and protecting the safety of Israeli civilians.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which of the following best describes why the Israelis claim the land that is now Israel?
- A.
The Palestinians defeated Israel and drove them from the land in 1948 war and they wish to reclaim it
- B.
They have always lived on the land.
- C.
Their ancestors first lived on the land in Bible times, were forced out against their will, and wre mistreated everywhere else in the world, especially in the Holocaust
Correct Answer
C. Their ancestors first lived on the land in Bible times, were forced out against their will, and wre mistreated everywhere else in the world, especially in the HolocaustExplanation
The Israelis claim the land that is now Israel because their ancestors first lived on the land in Bible times, were forced out against their will, and were mistreated everywhere else in the world, especially in the Holocaust.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following best sums up the reason that Palestinians claim the land that is now Israel?
- A.
Their ancestors lived there since the 13th century when the Ottoman Empire ruled the region; therefore they had lived there for centuries before the UN proclamation.
- B.
They had been promised the land by Muhammed in 300 BC
- C.
They are the victims of constant terrorist attacks and suicide bombings by the Israelis
Correct Answer
A. Their ancestors lived there since the 13th century when the Ottoman Empire ruled the region; therefore they had lived there for centuries before the UN proclamation.Explanation
The reason that Palestinians claim the land that is now Israel is because their ancestors lived there since the 13th century when the Ottoman Empire ruled the region. They argue that they had lived there for centuries before the UN proclamation, which they believe gives them a historical and ancestral right to the land.Rate this question:
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