Defining War: Examining Israel’s Actions in Gaza

(C) By Acka Reubens Ordughga

Abstract:

This paper seeks to explore the concept of war and its applicability to the situation in Gaza involving Israel. By examining various definitions and criteria for war, we aim to determine whether the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza can be strictly classified as a war. Through analysis of historical and contemporary perspectives, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations, this paper offers insights into the nature of warfare and its manifestations in the modern world.

Introduction: The conflict between Israel and Gaza has long been a topic of international concern, sparking debates over the nature of the violence and the appropriate terminology to describe it. At the heart of this discussion lies the question: is what Israel is doing in Gaza strictly speaking a war? To answer this question, it is essential to first establish a clear understanding of what constitutes a war.

Defining War: War is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that defies easy categorization. Traditionally, war has been defined as a state of armed conflict between sovereign nations or entities. However, in the modern era, the concept of war has evolved to encompass a broader range of conflicts, including civil wars, insurgencies, and asymmetric conflicts.

One commonly cited definition of war is provided by the renowned military strategist Carl von Clausewitz, who famously described war as “the continuation of politics by other means.” This definition highlights the inherently political nature of war, emphasizing its role as a tool for advancing national interests and resolving disputes.

In addition to Clausewitz’s definition, legal frameworks such as the Geneva Conventions provide criteria for distinguishing between war and other forms of violence. According to international law, a conflict must meet certain criteria, such as the presence of organized armed forces and a certain level of intensity, to be considered a war.

Israel’s Actions in Gaza: Against this backdrop, we turn our attention to the situation in Gaza and Israel’s actions in the region. The conflict between Israel and Gaza is characterized by a long history of territorial disputes, political grievances, and ethnic tensions. The use of military force by both sides has resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction, leading many to label the situation as a war.

However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that the conflict in Gaza does not neatly fit the traditional definition of war. Unlike conventional wars between sovereign states, the conflict in Gaza is characterized by asymmetric warfare, with one side possessing significantly greater military capabilities than the other.

Furthermore, the absence of a formal declaration of war and the lack of clear objectives or boundaries further complicate efforts to classify the conflict as a war. Instead, the situation in Gaza more closely resembles a protracted conflict or a low-intensity conflict, characterized by sporadic violence and a lack of clear resolution.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the question of whether Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute a war is a complex and contentious issue. While the violence and destruction in the region are undeniably tragic, the conflict does not meet the criteria traditionally associated with war. Instead, it reflects the changing nature of conflict in the modern world, characterized by asymmetry, ambiguity, and complexity.

Moving forward, efforts to address the situation in Gaza must be guided by a nuanced understanding of the dynamics at play and a commitment to finding peaceful and sustainable solutions to the underlying grievances. Only through dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law can lasting peace be achieved in the region.

References:

1. Clausewitz, Carl von. On War. Princeton University Press, 1989.
2. Geneva Conventions of 1949 and Additional Protocols. International Committee of the Red Cross.
3. Dinstein, Yoram. War, Aggression and Self-Defence. Cambridge University Press, 2005.
4. Walt, Stephen M. “The End of Alliances.” International Security, vol. 34, no. 3, 2010, pp. 7-44.
5. United Nations Security Council Resolution 242 (1967).
6. Amnesty International. “Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories: 2020 Amnesty International Report.” Amnesty International, 2020.