Fact Check: "The phrase 'from the river to the sea' refers to lands between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea."
What We Know
The phrase "from the river to the sea" specifically refers to the geographic area situated between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, which encompasses modern-day Israel and the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. This area has historically been known as Palestine, particularly during the period of British Mandate (1920-1948) (AP News, Wikipedia). The Jordan River runs along the eastern edge of this territory, while the Mediterranean Sea lies to the west.
The phrase has been adopted in various political contexts, particularly by Palestinian activists and groups like Hamas, who use it to advocate for a single state solution that includes the entirety of the land between these two bodies of water (AP News, NPR).
Analysis
The claim that the phrase refers to the lands between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea is accurate and supported by multiple credible sources. The AP News article notes that the Jordan River is over 200 miles long and runs along the eastern flank of Israel and the occupied West Bank, while the Mediterranean Sea lies to the west (AP News).
Furthermore, the Wikipedia entry confirms that the phrase is a political slogan that denotes the area historically known as Palestine, which has been a focal point of conflict and political discourse between Israelis and Palestinians (Wikipedia).
While the phrase has been interpreted in various ways—some viewing it as a call for peace and equality, and others perceiving it as a demand for the destruction of Israel—its geographical reference remains consistent across interpretations (NPR, Al Jazeera).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations and academic references that provide factual information about the historical and political context of the phrase.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The phrase "from the river to the sea" indeed refers to the lands between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. This geographical definition is supported by multiple credible sources, and while the phrase carries various political connotations, its literal meaning remains consistent.
