While there hasn't been an official declaration, famine is
already ravaging parts of the Gaza Strip, according to UN officials. This
crisis has unfolded with unprecedented speed, fueled by Israel's total siege on
the enclave for over three months and a massive bombing campaign that has
obliterated crucial infrastructure. The deliberate starvation of civilians is
deemed a war crime, forming a pivotal part of South Africa's case against
Israel for genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Insight from Famine Expert Alex de Waal
To delve into the dire hunger situation in Gaza, The New
Humanitarian interviewed Alex de Waal, the executive director of the World
Peace Foundation at Tufts University and an expert on famine and humanitarian
crises. As starvation and deadly diseases spread, UN agencies call for
increased aid, access, and safety guarantees from Israel for humanitarian
activities within the territory.
Grim Outlook Despite Humanitarian Efforts
Even with potential increases in aid, de Waal warns that the
dire conditions won't be swiftly reversed. Without a prompt change in aid
delivery and access, the risk of large-scale deaths from hunger and disease,
especially among young children, looms ominously.
Fragile Deal and Deteriorating Conditions
A recent deal brokered by France and Qatar allows more
humanitarian aid into Gaza in exchange for medicine for hostages held by Hamas.
However, the extent and duration of this aid remain unclear, as Israel has only
permitted a limited flow of assistance since imposing the total siege. A food
security assessment from late November and early December revealed that the
entire population of Gaza, around 2.3 million people, faced imminent famine
risks.
Israel's Defense and UN's Rebuttal
Israeli officials argue that there is sufficient food and
water, blaming the UN for shortages. UN officials counter this, citing Israel's
cumbersome aid inspection process, ongoing hostilities, and refusal to
guarantee security for aid missions. The toll from Israel's military campaign
is staggering, with over 24,000 casualties, 85% displacement, and a collapsing
healthcare system.
Expert Insights on Famine
The New Humanitarian's conversation with Alex de Waal covers
various aspects, shedding light on the nature of famines, comparisons to other
crises, legal implications, and urgent actions needed to avert mass starvation.
De Waal emphasizes the gravity of crises, stressing that the focus on declaring
famines sometimes detracts from the severity of emergencies that fall short of
the famine threshold.
Famine Declaration and Its Impact
De Waal explains that while a famine declaration has no
legal force, it carries moral and policy weight. Governments, especially those
contributing to famines, aim to avoid the stigma associated with such
declarations. He cites past instances where famine declarations prompted
political actions, highlighting the potential impact on Israel's actions in
Gaza.
Accountability and Legal Implications
Addressing the legal aspects, de Waal points to prima facie
evidence that Israel is committing the war crime of starvation. South Africa's
case at the ICJ alleges genocide, emphasizing the creation of conditions making
survival impossible. The responsibility extends to countries arming Israel,
potentially implicating them in the crime.
Future Outlook and Accountability Mechanisms
As February approaches, with expectations of heightened
hunger levels in Gaza, de Waal expresses doubt about a second famine review
amidst active hostilities. He calls for accountability through the
International Criminal Court and emphasizes the role of the ICJ and UN Security
Council Resolution 2417 in addressing widespread food insecurity.
Unprecedented Destruction in Gaza
Comparing Gaza's situation to other crises, de Waal notes
the unparalleled speed and comprehensiveness of destruction. The scale of the
siege's impact, especially on objects essential for survival, is unprecedented
in recent decades.
International Law and Starvation
De Waal clarifies that the war crime of starvation does not
require actual deaths; intentional destruction of essential objects suffices.
Siege prohibitions relate to depriving populations of essentials without a
specified death threshold. He cites past cases where the failure to press
starvation charges was a mistake, emphasizing that intentional deprivation
warrants prohibition.
Paths to Accountability
Regarding accountability, de Waal outlines the potential
roles of the International Criminal Court and the ICJ. The latter, currently
deliberating South Africa's case, could instruct Israel to cease actions
causing the humanitarian crisis. Compliance could be enforced through UN
Security Council resolutions.
Mitigation Through Aid and Urgent Humanitarian Response
While more aid is desirable, de Waal warns that it won't
suffice if the destruction continues. A comprehensive emergency relief
operation, including rehabilitation across all sectors, is imperative.
Protection of civilians is vital, given the consistent violation of norms in
Israel's conduct of hostilities.
Bleak Future Without Swift Action
De Waal envisions an unimaginably worse situation in Gaza
without immediate action. With destruction across all essential aspects of life
and the harsh winter conditions exacerbating suffering, the responsibility lies
with Israel to avert mass starvation. The potential legal consequences
underscore the urgency of international intervention.