Oslo Accords (1993)

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The Oslo Accords, signed on September 13, 1993, were a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. These agreements marked the beginning of direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), aiming to achieve a two-state solution. The accords were the result of secret talks in Oslo, Norway, facilitated by Norway's government. They included mutual recognition, with the PLO acknowledging Israel's right to exist and Israel recognizing the PLO as the representative of the Palestinian people. The Oslo Accords established the Palestinian Authority to govern parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. They outlined a five-year transitional period, during which permanent status issues like Jerusalem, refugees, and borders would be addressed. Despite initial optimism, the process faced significant challenges, including opposition from both sides and violence. The accords ultimately failed to achieve a lasting peace, but they remain a crucial milestone in efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.