From Biafra to Gaza: Hunger as a Weapon of War – A Comparative Analysis of Conflict-Induced Food Deprivation

Abstract This article examines the strategic use of hunger as a weapon of war through a comparative analysis of two case studies: The Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970) and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, particularly since October 7, 2023. In both conflicts, food deprivation emerged not as a byproduct of war but as a deliberate tactic aimed at weakening adversaries and exerting control over civilian populations. Drawing on primary reports, legal texts, and scholarly literature, the paper examines how blockades and restrictions on aid delivery have created acute humanitarian crises characterized by famine, malnutrition, and high civilian mortality rates. It further examines the ethical and legal implications of these practices under international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the prohibition of starvation as a method of warfare. The study also assesses the role of international actors, humanitarian organizations, and media coverage in shaping responses to these crises. By comparing the political motivations, humanitarian consequences, and global reactions, the article underscores the enduring relevance of hunger as a tool of political violence and advocates for stronger international accountability mechanisms to safeguard civilian populations.