War and The Environment: A Case of the Israel War in Gaza (2023–2025)
Abstract
The Israel–Gaza conflict (2023–2025) represents one of the most environmentally and socially destructive episodes in the contemporary Middle East. Beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis, the war has generated extensive degradation of natural ecosystems, critical infrastructure, and public services, with consequences that extend to Israel and the global community. This study examines the environmental impacts of the conflict, drawing attention to the interconnections between warfare, ecological damage, social disruption, and economic instability. Using a qualitative analytical approach grounded in Political Ecology, War Ecology, and Systems Theory, the paper synthesizes evidence from international reports and scholarly literature to assess damage to land, water, air quality, biodiversity, and built environments, as well as the implications for education, public health, and livelihoods. The findings indicate that large-scale destruction, hazardous debris, pollution, and resource depletion have severely undermined environmental sustainability in Gaza, while the estimated US$70 billion required for reconstruction poses significant global environmental and economic pressures. The study concludes that environmentally sustainable reconstruction, strong international collaboration, protection of human capital, and effective governance are essential for recovery. Furthermore, it argues that a durable political settlement, particularly through a Two-State Solution, is fundamental to preventing recurrent environmental degradation and advancing long-term peace and sustainability in the region.
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