Israel-Hamas War: Two Years of Systemic Violence and Power Dynamics
A critical analysis of the Israel-Hamas conflict reveals patterns of institutional violence and power dynamics that have devastated Gaza's civilian population over two years of systematic destruction.
Destroyed residential buildings in Gaza symbolize systematic institutional violence and humanitarian crisis
Critical Analysis of Institutional Violence in Gaza Conflict
The two-year mark of the Israel-Hamas conflict reveals a devastating pattern of systematic institutional violence that has transformed Gaza into an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. The conflict, which began with Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack, has evolved into a complex web of power dynamics, state violence, and civilian suffering.
Structural Violence and Humanitarian Crisis
The systematic destruction of civilian infrastructure, including the al-Kawthar Tower and numerous residential buildings, exemplifies the institutional power dynamics at play. The UN's assessment of 'unprecedented' damage, with 51 million tons of rubble covering Gaza, reflects the scale of structural violence against Palestinian communities.
Global Power Relations and Military Industrial Complex
The conflict's expansion into regional territories demonstrates the broader implications of global power dynamics and military industrialization. Trump's administration's role in facilitating military actions, particularly in Iran, raises critical questions about Western complicity in regional destabilization.
Genocide Claims and Humanitarian Law
The International Association of Genocide Scholars' determination that Israel's actions meet the legal definition of genocide demands urgent international attention. The systematic destruction of essential infrastructure, coupled with mass displacement and food insecurity, presents compelling evidence of structural violence against Palestinian civilians.
Critical Humanitarian Concerns
- 78% of Gaza Strip buildings partially or fully destroyed
- 88% of schools damaged or destroyed
- Widespread starvation and malnutrition reported
- Average of 27 children killed daily over two years
Power Dynamics in Peace Negotiations
The emerging peace deal, orchestrated through Trump's intervention, reflects problematic power imbalances and colonial approaches to conflict resolution. The proposed 'Gaza Riviera' scheme and international oversight mechanisms raise serious concerns about Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination.
"The reconstruction task ahead reveals the true cost of institutional violence and systemic oppression in Gaza, where entire communities have been erased and social fabric destroyed."
Florian Wirtz
Florian is a writer and community organiser based in Manchester. Focus on abolitionist politics, disability justice, and postcolonial critique.