>The creation of Israel (1948?) by partitioning the country of Palestine resulted in the forced displacement of hundreds of thousands(?) of Palestinians. That partitioning was done by 'outsiders' under heavy protest by virtually all countries of the region.

This displacement was voluntary. Jews and palestinians, while probably not the best of friends at the time, were definitely not enemies. Furthermore, before the influx of jews that resulted from world war II, both groups had lived in harmony for HUNDREDS of years in a land that was, for the most part, empty.

If anything, the palestinians were to gain a LOT from the growth of the country in every possible aspect.

In 1947/48 the palestinians were aware that the five neighboring countries would attack as soon as the last british sets foot on a boat.

They were promissed that as soon as the arab victory would ensue, they would be more than welcome to return and take the country as theirs.

They were also told that during the conflict it was likely that the jews were likely to kill the palestinians as a reprisal.

OTOH, the jews told the palestinians that nothing would happen to them and that they (the jews) would not be defeated.

The palestinians left en masse before the conflict erupted.

Alex