Reading and Film Response: Shujaiya Dust

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Reading and Film Response
Shujaiya Dust
This reading highlights the plight of the victims of the war between Hamas and Israel. The Operation Protective edge, which was ordered by Prime Minister Netanyahu in 2014 had a devastating effect on many families in Gaza. This bombing campaign led to the deaths of over 2000 Palestinians while injuring eleven thousand. To make the situation worse, the bombs killed around 500 children. This shows the scale of merciless killings by the Israeli forces. The Shujaiya neighbourhood in Gaza was severely affected by these bombings. Israel destroyed critical infrastructure within the region such as water networks, learning institutions, power plants and housing. Over 100 business were destroyed, making many families lose their source of livelihood (Crabapple). Estimates show that more than 100, 000 people were left homeless.
This reading shows the injustice and crimes committed against innocent families in Gaza. First, the perpetrator Israel was not held fully accountable for their actions. Their army was cleared of any wrongdoing despite the war crimes in Gaza. Also, Israel has not provided any form of compensation for victims. A majority of families are still struggling to rebuild their damaged homes, property and life. Second, humanitarian agencies and NGO’s, such as the UN failed to fulfil the promises pledged to the victims. Further, donor countries who promised funds to rebuild Gaza also failed to honour their deal.
These PR stunts showed the level of dishonesty and hypocrisy displayed by leaders and organizations during a crisis. Even the municipal government in Gaza still oppressed its people by demanding taxes and fees instead of helping people rebuild their torn homes. The situation is even more worrying considering that Israel has maintained a blockade that prevents Gazan's from getting construction equipment (Crabapple). So, with these provocations from Israel, it will be ages before Gazan’s rebuild their life.
Blackout in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico was hit by complete devastation after Hurricane Maria. The ferocious winds damaged its infrastructure from roads, electricity and water system. The US territory was left without any power for several months. Also, the Hurricane led to the destruction of about half a million homes in Puerto Rico. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the military’s response was very slow. This Hurricane laid bare the inefficiencies, inequalities and corruption prevalent in the P...