Field letters
CHALLENGES OF IEDs, EOD OPERATIONS, AND UXO CONTAMINATION IN GAZA: A CALL FOR COMPREHENSIVE ACTION
Introduction
The announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza and the agreement to release hostages are welcome developments in the pursuit of peace in a region marked by protracted conflict. These positive steps signify a moment of hope amid a decades-long cycle of violence and instability. However, these achievements must be viewed in the broader context of a humanitarian crisis that continues to devastate Gaza, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives of millions. As one of the most densely populated areas in the world, Gaza faces unique challenges in addressing the aftermath of armed conflict. The widespread destruction of infrastructure exacerbates these challenges, the loss of countless lives, and the displacement of large sections of its population.
The effects of conflict in Gaza extend far beyond the immediate devastation. The remnants of war, particularly improvised explosive devices (IEDs), unexploded ordnance (UXOs), and other explosive remnants, pose long-term threats to civilian safety and development. These remnants lie buried beneath rubble, scattered across agricultural fields, and embedded within urban areas, endangering not only the lives of civilians but also those of humanitarian workers and first responders who risk their safety to rebuild the region. These hazards severely restrict access to essential services, such as healthcare and education, and hinder economic stability and normalcy efforts.
The remnants of war, particularly improvised explosive devices (IEDs), unexploded ordnance (UXOs), and other explosive remnants, pose long-term threats to civilian safety and development.
Gaza’s complex sociopolitical dynamics make addressing these challenges even more pressing. The region’s high population density and the young demographic composition increase the likelihood of accidental encounters with explosive remnants. Children, in particular, are disproportionately vulnerable, as they may unknowingly interact with these deadly devices while playing or traveling to school. The psychological toll on communities living under the constant threat of explosions is immeasurable, contributing to long-term trauma that affects multiple generations.
The urgency of addressing these issues is underscored by the global consensus on the importance of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations as an essential component of post-conflict recovery. EOD efforts save lives and pave the way for sustainable development by enabling safe access to land, infrastructure, and resources. These operations require skilled professionals, robust resources, and close collaboration between international organizations, local authorities, and affected communities. However, the scope of the problem in Gaza highlights the need for more than technical solutions. Education and public awareness are equally vital in reducing the risks associated with explosive remnants of war.
Educational outreach programs are crucial in empowering communities with the knowledge and tools to recognize, avoid, and report explosive devices. Such initiatives are particularly important in conflict zones like Gaza, where traditional state-driven mechanisms are often insufficient or absent. By integrating mine risk education into schools, community centers, and media platforms, stakeholders can significantly reduce the incidence of accidents and promote a culture of safety and resilience.
This article explores the multidimensional risks IEDs and UXOs pose in Gaza, analyzes the critical importance of EOD operations in mitigating these dangers, and advocates for practical, community-focused measures to address their long-term impact. In doing so, it aims to contribute to the broader discourse on post-conflict recovery and the role of education in fostering safer and more sustainable societies in regions affected by war.
Hidden and unpredictable devices
High population density
Delayed reconstruction and return
Psychological trauma
All of the above
The Human and Structural Cost of Conflict
With over 90% of Gaza's population internally displaced and an estimated 60% of residential buildings damaged or destroyed, the humanitarian situation is dire. Entire neighborhoods lie in ruins, and infrastructure essential for daily life, such as water systems, hospitals, and schools, has been severely affected. Amidst this devastation, UXOs pose an ongoing threat to civilians attempting to rebuild their lives.
The scale of UXO contamination in Gaza is not yet fully quantified, but experience from similar post-conflict settings, such as Lebanon and Iraq, indicates that it will take years, if not decades, to address comprehensively. Urban areas, schools, playgrounds, and agricultural lands are all at risk, exacerbating the challenges of reconstruction and recovery. This persistent danger underscores the importance of prioritizing EOD efforts in the humanitarian response.
The Threat of IEDs and UXOs
In conflict and post-conflict environments, the presence of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and unexploded ordnance (UXOs) creates profound challenges that extend well beyond the battlefield. These remnants of war pose immediate physical threats and obstruct long-term recovery and development. In Gaza, where dense urban environments intersect with severe humanitarian crises, the risks associated with IEDs and UXOs are magnified, creating a multilayered problem with far-reaching consequences.
1. Unpredictability and Concealment
The very nature of IEDs and UXOs makes them particularly dangerous. IEDs are often deliberately engineered to evade detection, employing creative and concealed designs to maximize their lethality. They can be hidden in everyday objects, from discarded electronics to roadside debris, and are frequently triggered by unsuspecting victims. This unpredictability makes them a persistent threat, even after hostilities have ceased.
UXOs, on the other hand, include a variety of explosive remnants of war, such as artillery shells, cluster munitions, and air-dropped bombs that failed to detonate upon impact. While these devices were not intentionally concealed, their failure to explode on initial deployment turns them into latent hazards. Often buried under rubble or partially embedded in the ground, UXOs can remain dormant for years or even decades before being accidentally triggered by unsuspecting civilians. In Gaza, this risk is particularly acute due to the heavy use of artillery and airstrikes during conflicts, leaving behind a staggering volume of unexploded munitions.
The concealed nature of IEDs and the dormant threat of UXOs complicate efforts to navigate and rebuild conflict-affected areas safely. Every step taken by civilians, first responders, or construction crews carries the potential for deadly consequences. This inherent uncertainty underscores the critical need for specialized Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations capable of systematically detecting and neutralizing these threats.
2. Densely Populated Urban Environments
Gaza’s extraordinarily high population density further intensifies the dangers posed by IEDs and UXOs. With over two million people living within a mere 365 square kilometers, the margin for error in identifying and clearing explosive threats is minimal. Unlike sparsely populated rural regions, where explosive hazards may remain isolated for years, Gaza’s urban environment ensures that these devices are often near homes, schools, markets, and places of worship.
This reality significantly increases the likelihood of accidental detonations. In crowded neighborhoods, even a single UXO or IED can result in mass casualties, with devastating consequences for families and communities. Children, in particular, are at heightened risk, as their natural curiosity may lead them to interact with these hidden dangers. Tragically, this has led to numerous cases where young lives are lost or irreparably altered due to explosive accidents.
Moreover, the urban concentration of these threats creates logistical challenges for EOD teams tasked with neutralizing them. The complex architecture of buildings, narrow alleyways, and densely packed neighborhoods complicates efforts to safely locate and dismantle explosive devices without causing collateral damage.
3. Impact on Daily Life and Reconstruction
The contamination of land and infrastructure with UXOs and IEDs severely hinders Gaza’s recovery efforts. Beyond the immediate physical danger, these remnants of war have far-reaching implications for the region’s social and economic fabric.
The presence of UXOs prevents displaced populations from returning to their homes, leaving many families in a state of prolonged displacement. This displacement further strains limited resources, including food, water, and healthcare, compounding the humanitarian crisis. Furthermore, the inability to rebuild homes, schools, and hospitals due to the risk of detonation stifles recovery and perpetuates cycles of poverty and instability.
Every unexploded bomb is a stolen childhood. Every delay in aid is another life in danger.
Even areas cleared of UXOs and IEDs may remain inaccessible due to lingering fears and mistrust. Farmers, for instance, may avoid cultivating fields where explosive remnants are suspected, leading to food insecurity and economic losses. Similarly, critical infrastructure projects, such as the repair of water and electricity networks, often face significant delays due to the need for extensive EOD operations.
This disruption to daily life has profound ripple effects on the region’s overall stability. It limits opportunities for education, employment, and social cohesion, further entrenching the challenges faced by Gaza’s population.
4. Psychological Toll
The psychological impact of living in an environment contaminated by IEDs and UXOs is immense and far-reaching. For residents of Gaza, the constant threat of detonation instills a pervasive sense of fear and insecurity that extends beyond the physical risks. This psychological toll is especially acute among children, who may mistake these deadly devices for toys or harmless objects.
The trauma caused by explosive accidents leaves deep scars on individuals and communities. Survivors of such incidents often face long-term physical and emotional challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Families who have lost loved ones or witnessed horrific injuries must navigate the complex process of grieving and rebuilding their lives. The psychological effects are not confined to direct victims; entire communities are impacted by the collective fear and uncertainty generated by the presence of IEDs and UXOs. This persistent state of vigilance undermines social cohesion, erodes trust in public spaces, and inhibits efforts to foster resilience and recovery.
The Urgency for Action
Addressing the threat of IEDs and UXOs in Gaza requires a multifaceted approach that combines technical expertise, community engagement, and international collaboration. While EOD operations are essential for neutralizing explosive threats, they must be complemented by robust educational initiatives that empower local communities to recognize, avoid, and report potential dangers.
By integrating mine risk education into schools, community programs, and media campaigns, stakeholders can reduce the incidence of accidental detonations and build a culture of safety and awareness. Additionally, increased investment in advanced detection technologies and training programs for EOD personnel can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of clearance efforts.
Ultimately, mitigating the long-term impact of IEDs and UXOs is not just a technical challenge but a moral imperative. It demands sustained commitment from the international community, local authorities, and civil society to ensure that the people of Gaza can live, work, and rebuild without the constant shadow of explosive threats. Only by addressing these dangers comprehensively can we pave the way for the region's safer, more stable, and more resilient future.
Lessons from Post-Conflict Settings
Experiences in countries such as Lebanon, South Sudan, and Syria provide valuable insights into effective strategies for addressing UXO contamination. Key lessons include:
Comprehensive Survey and Mapping: Accurate identification and mapping of contaminated areas are foundational to successful clearance operations.
Community Engagement: Involving local populations in risk education and reporting mechanisms ensures that interventions are tailored to community needs and realities.
Sustained International Support: Addressing UXO contamination requires the international community's long-term commitment, including funding, technical expertise, and equipment.
The Role of Risk Education
Risk education is essential to mitigating the dangers posed by UXOs and IEDs. In Gaza, educating communities about how to recognize, avoid, and report these threats can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death. Efforts must focus on:
School-Based Programs: Children are particularly vulnerable to UXO-related accidents. Integrating risk education into school curricula ensures that children receive age-appropriate information on how to stay safe.
Community Outreach: Awareness campaigns using visual aids, social media, and local leaders can reach broader audiences, including adults who may encounter UXOs while working or traveling.
Training and Capacity Building: Local educators, health workers, and community leaders should be trained to effectively deliver risk education and respond to emergencies.
Proposed Measures for Implementation
Addressing the challenges posed by UXOs and IEDs in Gaza requires a coordinated, multi-pronged approach. The following measures are recommended:
1. Immediate Prioritization of UXO Clearance
Deploy Specialized EOD Teams: Allocate resources to mobilize trained personnel who can systematically survey and clear contaminated areas. These teams should prioritize locations with high civilian activity, such as schools, hospitals, and markets.
Utilize Advanced Detection Technologies: Tools like ground-penetrating radar, drones, and robotic devices can enhance the accuracy and safety of clearance operations. Investing in such technologies reduces the time and risks associated with manual detection methods.
2. Comprehensive Risk Education Programs
Culturally Relevant Educational Materials: Design materials that resonate with local customs and languages, ensuring that safety messages are easily understood and widely accepted. Storybooks, interactive games, and digital content tailored to Gaza’s context can make education engaging and effective.
Teacher Training: Train educators to seamlessly incorporate UXO safety into existing subjects, such as science or social studies, emphasizing practical advice on recognizing and avoiding hazards.
3. Community Involvement
Reporting Mechanisms: Establish anonymous reporting systems, such as hotlines or mobile apps, allowing residents to report suspected UXOs safely and efficiently.
Involve Cultural and Religious Leaders: Leverage their influence to deliver safety messages during sermons, community gatherings, and other events. This approach ensures widespread acceptance and adoption of risk education practices.
4. Long-Term Support for Survivors
Medical Care and Rehabilitation: Provide survivors access to advanced medical treatments, prosthetics, and physical therapy to aid their recovery.
Psychological Support: Establish counseling services and support groups to address the emotional trauma associated with UXO incidents.
Vocational Training: Offer skill-building programs to help survivors regain independence and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Enforce international law
More funding & tech support
Risk education in schools
Engage local communities
Stronger global coordination
5. Advocacy and Policy Development
Adherence to International Law: To minimize civilian harm, Advocate for compliance with international humanitarian standards, such as the Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas Declaration.
Collaboration for Funding: Partner with international organizations, donor countries, and NGOs to secure financial and technical support for UXO clearance and risk education initiatives.
Conclusion
The challenges posed by IEDs, UXOs, and other remnants of war in Gaza are immense, but they are not insurmountable. By prioritizing EOD operations, investing in risk education, and fostering community engagement, mitigating the long-term impact of these hazards and supporting the recovery of affected populations is possible. The international community must act swiftly and decisively, recognizing that addressing UXO contamination is not only a humanitarian imperative but also a crucial step toward building a safer, more stable future for Gaza.
As centers of learning and community engagement, schools are uniquely positioned to play a transformative role in this effort, empowering the next generation with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the challenges of post-conflict recovery safely and confidently. Integrated with broader clearance efforts and long-term support systems, risk education can instill a culture of awareness and vigilance, saving lives and reducing the psychological burden of living amid hidden dangers. Moreover, the involvement of local communities, religious and cultural leaders, and trained professionals can create a robust network of safety advocates who can spread awareness, encourage responsible behavior, and facilitate the reporting and clearance of explosive remnants. Such grassroots participation ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive, widely accepted, and deeply rooted in the affected population.
However, achieving these goals demands more than localized efforts. It requires sustained international collaboration, financial investment, and adherence to global humanitarian laws and best practices. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies must collaborate to provide the technical expertise, funding, and political will necessary to clear UXOs and support educational and rehabilitation initiatives. A coordinated approach will amplify the effectiveness of these programs, ensuring that no one is left behind. Ultimately, addressing the dangers of UXOs and IEDs in Gaza is about more than clearing land and reducing immediate risks, it is about restoring dignity, hope, and the possibility of a brighter future for a population that has endured so much. Every step taken to remove these hazards and educate the public contributes to rebuilding lives, fostering resilience, and laying the foundation for long-term peace and stability in the region. The journey may be arduous, but the rewards, saving lives, rebuilding communities, and restoring hope are undeniably worth the effort.
Lieutenant Colonel Suneth Fernando USP (Retd)MSc (Cbo), MAIR (Cbo), PgDCPS (Cbo), EdHRM (Cbo), EEMM (China)EOD/IEDD Specialist (EOD Level 3) Explosive Ordnance Risk Education Facilitator/Explosive Hazard Mitigation Author
Lieutenant Colonel Suneth Fernando (Retd) is a highly accomplished military professional and humanitarian mine action expert with 28 years of service in the Sri Lanka Army Corps of Engineers. He holds multiple academic qualifications, including a Master of Science in Conflict and Peace Studies, a Master of Arts in International Relations, a Postgraduate Diploma in Conflict and Peace Studies, and an Executive Diploma in Human Resource Management from the University of Colombo. Additionally, he earned an engineering diploma from the Army Engineering University, Nanjing, China.
As a certified EOD/IEDD Specialist (Level 3), Lieutenant Colonel Fernando has advanced expertise in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and bomb disposal. He has undergone specialized training in India, China, and Bangladesh. He has worked alongside the U.S. Marines and U.S. Army in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, gaining valuable experience in advanced demining techniques and bomb disposal procedures. His career highlights include leading large-scale demining and explosive risk disposal operations during Sri Lanka's post-conflict recovery phase, enabling the safe resettlement of communities and the revitalization of agricultural and infrastructure projects.
Combining extensive operational experience with a strong academic foundation, Lieutenant Colonel Fernando is committed to enhancing post-conflict recovery and creating safer environments for vulnerable communities. His work demonstrates a dedication to humanitarian principles and the mitigation of explosive threats worldwide.
