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Gaza in Crisis


Synopsis


Co-authored by two leading voices in the struggle to liberate Palestine, a clear-sighted and essential analysis of the political context around this region at a desperate impasse

From the targeting of schools and hospitals, to the indiscriminate use of white phosphorus, Israel's conduct in 'Operation Cast Lead' has rattled even some of its most strident supporters.

In Gaza in Crisis, Noam Chomsky and Ilan Pappé survey the fallout from that devastation, and place the massacre in Gaza in the context of Israel's long-standing war against the Palestinians. It is a rigorous, historically informed and much-needed analysis of the situation and will be welcomed by all those eager for Chomsky's and Pappé's insights into yet another political catastrophe.

'Noam Chomsky is a global phenomenon . . . he may be the most widely read American voice on foreign policy on the planet today' The New York Times Book Review

'Ilan Pappé is Israel's bravest, most principled, most incisive historian' John Pilger

Noam Chomsky, Ilan Pappé, Frank Barat

Summary

Chapter 1: The Siege: A City Under Fire

* Describes the Israeli blockade of Gaza, imposed after Hamas took control of the territory in 2007.
* Explains the devastating impact of the siege on the people of Gaza, including severe shortages of food, water, and medicine.
* Example: A resident of Gaza describes the difficulty of finding clean water for his family amidst the siege.

Chapter 2: The War: A Humanitarian Catastrophe

* Chronicles the three major wars between Israel and Hamas in 2008-2009, 2012, and 2014.
* Details the immense suffering caused by the wars, including civilian casualties, destruction of infrastructure, and displacement of millions.
* Example: A father recounts his family's ordeal during the 2009 war, when they were trapped in a besieged neighborhood with limited access to food and water.

Chapter 3: The Economy: A Struggling City

* Examines the dire economic situation in Gaza, driven by the siege and military incursions.
* Discusses the high unemployment rates, lack of investment, and dependence on international aid.
* Example: A young woman talks about the challenges of finding a stable job in Gaza, where the economy is crippled by the siege.

Chapter 4: The Health System: Overwhelmed and Underfunded

* Describes the deteriorating health system in Gaza, which faces chronic shortages of supplies, equipment, and trained medical personnel.
* Explains the inadequate access to healthcare for the sick and injured, including life-threatening conditions.
* Example: A doctor describes the daily struggles to provide critical care to patients amidst the siege and recurrent military operations.

Chapter 5: The People: Resilience and Despair

* Explores the human toll of the siege and wars on the people of Gaza.
* Analyzes the psychological trauma, loss of hope, and deep mistrust of the outside world.
* Example: A woman shares her story of coping with the aftermath of losing her home and family during the 2014 war.

Chapter 6: The Future: Prospects for Peace

* Discusses the challenges and prospects for resolving the conflict in Gaza.
* Explores the need for international pressure, a just and lasting peace agreement, and a lifting of the siege to address the humanitarian crisis.
* Example: A group of peace activists discuss their efforts to mobilize support for a peaceful solution to the conflict in Gaza.