Cairo – The General Secretariat of the Arab League convened a regional dialogue session today, focusing on the alarming trend of using starvation as a weapon of war. The discussion, held virtually, centered on the theme: “Starvation as a Weapon of War: Siege, Zionist Aggression, and its Impact on Women in the Gaza Strip and Occupied Palestinian Territories.”
The session aimed to analyze the multifaceted consequences of employing starvation tactics in conflict zones, with a particular emphasis on the plight of women. Participants explored the legal, ethical, and humanitarian dimensions of such practices, examining how sieges and restrictions on access to food and essential resources disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
Key topics included:
- The legal definition of starvation as a war crime under international law.
- The impact of prolonged sieges on food security and public health in conflict-affected areas.
- The specific challenges faced by women in accessing food, healthcare, and other essential services during times of conflict.
- Strategies for mitigating the effects of starvation and ensuring humanitarian access to affected populations.
- Accountability mechanisms for those responsible for employing starvation as a weapon of war.
The Arab League has expressed its deep concern over the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and other occupied Palestinian territories, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive and lasting solution to the conflict. The organization reiterated its commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and advocating for their right to self-determination.
The dialogue session brought together experts from various fields, including international law, humanitarian aid, and gender studies, to share their insights and contribute to a deeper understanding of the issue. The discussions are expected to inform future policy recommendations and advocacy efforts aimed at preventing the use of starvation as a weapon of war and protecting civilians in conflict zones.
