BEYOND FAMINE AND CHAOS – CASE OF GAZA

Abstract

This paper examines the intricate relationship between the deliberate targeting of food supply chains in Gaza since the beginning of the War in October 2023, including food blockades and famine, and the resultant chaos within the region. It investigates the impact of these strategies on food security and societal stability, besides its impact on Gaza’s resilience capacity. The study contextualizes the historical and contemporary precedents of chaos tactics followed by the occupying forces, exploring their broader implications. Through a comprehensive literature review and analysis, the research elucidates the mechanisms of chaos creation in conflict zones, with a specific focus on food-related strategies. It further investigates the consequences of these actions on the local population, including the psychological, social, and economic ramifications. By integrating theoretical frameworks with empirical observations, the study aims to highlight the new resilience and coping mechanisms that need to be adopted by the Gazan community in the face of deliberate disruptions and deeper chaos whose early signs started with famine. This research contributes to understanding conflict-induced humanitarian crises, offering insights into the complexities of survival and adaptation in Gaza amidst ongoing turmoil and how the empathisers of the Palestinian cause need to be aware of even worse chaotic situations if not mitigated properly. The authors conclude with a sample of chaos mitigation plans that can be adopted by the Gazans now in order to keep the momentum of the resilience, which were foresighted by previous publications of Gaza Resilience Lab.