Home Journal List Journal of Political Studies Volume 23 Article Details

Blockade on Gaza Strip: A Living Hell on Earth

Abstract

Since the imposition of Israeli blockade on Gaza in 2007, a humanitarian crisis has emerged in the region. Gaza has turned into a vast ‘Human Cage’ on the eastern Mediterranean where 1.8 million human beings have been trapped, seems, they have no chance of escaping from their grave condition. Israeli occupation along with its prolonged and comprehensive blockade has been associated with numerous violations International Humanitarian Law. By restricting trade and people’s movement, the blockade has ruined spectrum of civilians’ basic rights and is halting the essential rehabilitation efforts. The blockade has led to extensive erosion of livelihoods, and a destruction of infrastructure and other essential social services. The repercussion for the civilian population is intense, pervasive and difficult. The blockade put big question mark on the responsibilities of Israel as an occupant to look after safety and well-being of civilians in Gaza. The International Community is of the view that the blockade amounts to a collective punishment of people in Gaza. On the other hand, Israel upholds that the blockade is lawful and is required to stop Hamas’s hostile activities and rocket attacks on its cities and to check Hamas arms supply from abroad. However, because of this situation the common citizens of this thin strip find themselves caught between the fusillades of two uncompromising, hard-headed opponents and paying the excessive cost in their blood. At present, the issue has become very complex and intractable in the Arab world and can cause threats to its peace and security. In this crucial state, the International Community including the United Nations, the European Union and Organization of Islamic Conference seem unable to take effective steps to resolve this prolonged conflict. Key Words: Blockade, Human cage, Gaza, Operation Cast Lead, Operation Pillar of Defence, Operation Protective Edge, Collective Punishment, International Community, Hamas, Fatah, Tunnel economy, Rafah crossing

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