• Arab states, after their defeat in 1949, felt humiliated.

• The Arabs perceived USA as manipulating the UN into establishing Israel.

• They believed Western powers might use Israel to monitor Arab nations.

• No peace treaties existed between Israel and the Arab states.

Real-world example: Imagine playing a sport and losing. Your opponents are given new gear by a popular brand, making you think the brand favors them. That's how the Arabs felt about Western countries supporting Israel.

• UN-initiated demilitarized zone inside Israel, containing Arab villages.

• Israel attempted to remove Arabs and establish Jewish settlements.

• Issues arose from Israel's efforts to use the Jordan river waters for irrigation.

Real-world example: Think of two kids sharing a sandbox, but one tries to claim more space and the toys inside. This causes arguments and fights.

• The state of Jordan included Transjordan and the West Bank of the river Jordan.

• King Abdullah assassinated in 1951; grandson Hussein ascended the throne in 1953.

• Jordan housed many Palestinian Arabs, many of whom fled Israel.

• Palestinians often tried returning, provoking Israeli retaliations. One notable retaliation: Israel's attack on Qibya in 1953, killing over 50 residents.

Real-world example: Imagine a shared playground. If kids from one side often cross to the other side without permission, the other group retaliates. Things escalate when someone gets really hurt.