The Impact of transgenerational trauma on conflict dynamics: a case study of the Israel-Palestine conflict

Abstract

This paper explores the effects of transgenerational trauma induced by conflict, with a specific focus on the Israel-Palestine conflict as a case study. Studies have shown that the decade-long conflict between Israel and the Palestinians caused both sides to experience transgenerational trauma. This trauma does not only occur on the individual but also the collective level. The problem, however, is this trauma can perpetuate cycles of violence, as political figures may exploit it to galvanize support for radical and potentially unlawful actions. This paper aims to investigate whether and how this is reflected in the Israeli government’s response to the Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023. To achieve this, the paper analyses official speeches and statements by Israeli government politicians published between October 7, 2023, and April 2024. The sources are then be examined to establish whether the politicians explicitly or implicitly invoke emotions that may be linked to Israel’s transgenerational trauma. The findings indicate that Israeli politicians frequently, both consciously and unconsciously, reference elements related to the collective Jewish transgenerational trauma. As a result, many Israelis may be more driven by emotion than rational deliberation when considering the conflict, leading to greater willingness to resort to violence against those who support the Palestinian side. Programs and organizations dedicated to fostering peace in this region must recognize the impact of this collective trauma and explicitly address it in peacebuilding projects.