Destroying to replace, destrying to not rebuild: Mohammed Nijim, ‘The dialectics of reconstruction in Gaza: settler colonialism and the impossibility of rebuilding Gaza’, Settler Colonia Studies, 2026 | settler colonial studies blog

Destroying to replace, destrying to not rebuild: Mohammed Nijim, ‘The dialectics of reconstruction in Gaza: settler colonialism and the impossibility of rebuilding Gaza’, Settler Colonia Studies, 2026

27Feb26

Abstract: This paper explores the reconstruction process in Gaza, which I see as dialectical, emphasizing its impossibility, at least on organic Indigenous terms. I suggest that any organic reconstruction of the native sector under Zionist settler colonialism is highly unlikely, especially when Western powers support such a regime and its pursuit of native destruction. I contend that genuine efforts at reconstruction stand in stark contradiction to Zionist ideology, which demands the full elimination of the natives, making calls for reconstruction highly dialectical. These dialectics are reflected in the settler regime’s unruly desire to eliminate Palestinians from Gaza, while seemingly engaging with reconstruction initiatives. The unprecedented destruction in Gaza is not a break from an old pattern but rather emphasizes the character of the Zionist project. Israel’s destruction, now and in the past, occurred without a solid response from Western actors, which further suggests the dialectics of sudden calls for reconstruction. As such, I argue that organic reconstruction is not possible without decolonization and genuine pressure from regional and Western actors. I build on existing literature on settler colonialism, genocide, and reconstruction. I also use survivor testimonies to highlight destruction in the current genocide.

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