Structural violence in Gaza: Civilian leadership decimation as a strategy of occupation
Original framing: “‘Cycle of chaos’: Israel killing Gaza civil officials to derail its future” — Al Jazeera
The targeting of civilian leadership in occupied territories has historical precedents in colonial contexts, such as British tactics in Ireland and the U.S. in the Philippines. These strategies aim to prevent the emergence of a unified political identity and to maintain control through fear.
The targeting of Gaza's civilian leadership is not an isolated incident but a systemic strategy embedded in the logic of occupation.
Drawing from Indigenous, historical, and cross-cultural perspectives, this violence disrupts the spiritual and political fabric of the community, reinforcing a cycle of instability. Scientific and legal analyses confirm that such actions hinder peace and self-determination, while marginalized voices reveal the human cost. To break this cycle, international legal enforcement, community-based governance, and media accountability must be pursued in tandem, informed by a holistic understanding of power, history, and resistance.