Israel Cuts Electricity Supply to Gaza Amid Ceasefire Standoff

Israel has officially halted its electricity supply to Gaza, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region. This decision follows last week’s suspension of all goods entering the Palestinian territory, home to over two million people.

The impact of this power cut is expected to be severe, as Gaza’s desalination plants rely on electricity to produce drinking water. The move is part of Israel’s strategy to pressure Hamas into agreeing to an extension of the ceasefire’s first phase, which ended last weekend. Israel has conditioned further negotiations on the release of half of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a commitment to discuss a lasting truce.

Hamas, on the other hand, insists on moving directly to the next phase of the ceasefire, which includes the full release of hostages, Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, and the establishment of a long-term peace agreement. The group, believed to be holding 24 living hostages and the remains of 35 others, has warned that further restrictions on Gaza’s resources will also impact the captives.

Despite ongoing negotiations mediated by Egypt, Hamas stated on Sunday that there has been no shift in its stance, calling for an immediate transition to ceasefire talks’ second phase.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The war has already left the region’s infrastructure in ruins, forcing residents to rely on generators and solar panels for limited power. The electricity cutoff threatens to disrupt water pumps and sanitation systems, worsening an already dire crisis.

The United Nations has condemned Israel’s actions, warning that denying essential supplies to civilians could amount to collective punishment. Meanwhile, the United States has acknowledged direct talks with Hamas, with U.S. envoy Adam Boehler suggesting a potential long-term truce could be within reach.