Peace and Conflict: Journal of Peace Psychology, Vol 32(1), Feb 2026, 35-43; doi:10.1037/pac0000831
Over the years, numerous arguments have been proposed to explain why it is challenging to resolve intractable conflicts involving occupation. The “living space” approach, embedded within geopolitical and psychological theories, offers a unique perspective on this issue. This article applies the principles of this approach to examine the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Geopolitical and psychological theories provide a broader, more generalized framework for understanding such conflicts, addressing motivations such as territorial expansion, resource exploitation, economic advantage, and, notably, the restructuring of national identity. Although Israeli leaders have not explicitly advocated for territorial annexation as a means of expansion, this drive remains latent within the Israeli ethos, as reflected in leadership rhetoric. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)