Gaza in Darkness: Israel’s electricity cut leaves residents struggling amid escalating tensions. Photo credit: Hatem Moussa
(The Post News)- In a significant escalation of measures against Hamas, Israel has halted its electricity supply to the Gaza Strip. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen announced the decision on Sunday, stating, “I have now signed an order to immediately halt electricity to the Gaza Strip. Enough with the talk. It’s time for actions!”
This move aims to pressure Hamas into releasing Israeli hostages and disarming them. The electricity cut primarily affects Gaza’s desalination plant, crucial for providing drinking water to the region. Before this, Gaza’s power infrastructure had been severely compromised since October 2023, following attacks by Hamas that damaged facilities. Consequently, residents have largely depended on generators and solar panels for electricity.
Israel’s strategy includes halting the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza, with potential plans to cut water supply and escalate military actions if necessary. These measures are part of a broader effort to coerce Hamas into releasing the remaining hostages and relinquishing control over the enclave.
Furthermore, negotiations are ongoing in Cairo, involving Hamas and Egyptian mediators, to resolve the conflict. Israel maintains firm demands for the release of hostages and the disarmament of Hamas. The situation remains tense, with international efforts focused on achieving a resolution.
The humanitarian impact of these measures is profound. The cessation of electricity severely hampers essential services, including water treatment and healthcare facilities, exacerbating the already dire conditions in Gaza. International bodies have expressed concern over the potential for a worsening humanitarian crisis.
As the situation develops, the international community continues to monitor the events closely, urging both parties to seek peaceful resolutions and mitigate the impact on civilians.
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