Academic Paper: Israeli Destruction in Gaza Strip: A Case Study of Spaciocide (Arabic)

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Al-Zaytouna Centre for Studies and Consultations has published an Arabic academic paper entitled “Israeli Destruction in Gaza Strip: A Case Study of Spaciocide,” by Ibrahim ‘Abdul Karim.

The study delves into Israel’s relentless efforts to undermine the legitimacy of the Palestinian presence within the country and to establish the Israeli state over the ruins of Palestinian territories. Employing a politicide strategy, Israel systematically dismantles Palestinian residential communities, erasing every facet of Palestinian life. This includes crushing their national identity, quashing their will, extinguishing their aspirations, and eradicating their cause. Additionally, Israel uproots the foundations of independent Palestinian development, eliminates resistance, and exercises control over the fate of the Gaza Strip (GS).

Examining this destruction within the broader context, the paper explores two intertwined Israeli approaches towards Palestine—Genocide (Genos = people, Cide = killing) and Urban Genocide (Urbicide = Urbs + Cide = killing). This analysis sheds light on the complex nature of Israeli actions in the region, encompassing geography, people and cause.

Recognizing this interconnectedness is vital for Palestinian organizations and actors as they navigate Israel’s ongoing destruction of GS. By understanding these nuances, they can strategically engage with various international legal avenues, such as the case initiated by South Africa before the International Court of Justice in The Hague, seeking to hold Israel accountable for “genocide” in GS.

This study aims to construct a theoretical framework around the concept of “Spaciocide.” It meticulously investigates Israel’s systematic destruction in GS, which includes demolishing buildings to create a “buffer zone” and the resulting environmental impact within Gaza, all integral components of this spaciocide.

Furthermore, the study critically assesses the unfounded justifications provided by Israel for these destructive actions, juxtaposing them with empirical evidence. It also documents explicit Israeli endorsement of destruction as a means of displacement. From a legal perspective, the study examines the destruction of buildings during conflict, drawing upon insights from UN Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing, Balakrishnan Rajagopal. Additionally, it analyzes the international legal consequences of Israel’s actions, underscoring the importance of accountability within the framework of international law.

Drawing upon reports from reputable international press outlets and translated materials from Israeli newspapers, the study acknowledges the presence of overtly biased Israeli perspectives and terminology within these sources.

In its conclusions, the paper challenges Israel’s assertion of rendering GS uninhabitable, highlighting a disparity between strategic aims and ground realities. Despite ongoing aggression, the resilience and determination of Gaza’s citizens to persevere amidst destruction are evident. They demonstrate a strong will to survive, adapt, and secure life’s necessities. Moreover, they staunchly resist displacement, contribute to reconstruction efforts, uphold principles of resistance, and advocate for their cause internationally. The study emphasizes the importance of harnessing both individual and collective energies to bolster resilience and surmount challenges, spanning personal and societal timelines.