The ongoing conflict in Gaza has escalated to unprecedented levels of destruction, leading experts to label the widespread devastation as a potential crime of genocide. According to a detailed investigation by Mediapart, the systematic destruction of urban centers in Gaza, referred to as 'urbicide,' has resulted in the obliteration of buildings, infrastructure, and the very fabric of Palestinian life. The report highlights that six out of every ten buildings in Gaza were destroyed within the first nine months of the conflict, raising serious concerns about the future of the region.
The United Nations Development Program has warned that rebuilding Gaza's infrastructure could take an estimated 28 years, even with a significant increase in the flow of building materials. Experts argue that the current military operations are not solely aimed at eliminating Hamas but rather at erasing the existence of Gaza itself, effectively returning the region to square one. This strategy of collective punishment has been described as a deliberate attempt to inflict misery on the population to undermine support for Hamas.
Mediapart's investigation also sheds light on the psychological impact of this destruction, as it seeks to erase Palestinian memory and identity. The demolition of homes and neighborhoods not only displaces families but also obliterates their histories and connections to the land. Personal stories, like that of Nour Al-Asi, illustrate the profound loss felt by residents, who are now left with only memories of their once-vibrant lives. The destruction of judicial archives and real estate registries further complicates the situation, leaving residents without proof of ownership and stability.
As the conflict continues, the international community faces pressing questions about the legality and morality of the actions being taken in Gaza. Experts emphasize that the indiscriminate destruction of civilian infrastructure is a violation of international law, raising alarms about the need for accountability and a reassessment of military strategies that disproportionately affect civilians.
- The term 'urbicide' was first introduced in the 1960s to describe the political will behind the large-scale destruction of cities. This concept has resurfaced in discussions about Gaza, as experts draw parallels with past conflicts in places like Sarajevo and Mariupol. The systematic approach to demolishing not just buildings but the very essence of urban life in Gaza reflects a broader strategy that goes beyond military objectives.
- Balakrishnan Rajagopal, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Adequate Housing, has been vocal about the need to classify the actions in Gaza as genocide. He argues that the destruction of homes and livelihoods constitutes a crime against humanity, and calls for international recognition of this reality. The ongoing violence and destruction highlight the urgent need for a renewed focus on humanitarian aid and rebuilding efforts, as well as a commitment to protecting civilian lives in conflict zones.
