Israel has announced plans to cut off all remaining electricity supplies to Gaza in an apparent effort to intensify pressure on Hamas amid ongoing negotiations over a fragile ceasefire. The move raises serious concerns for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, most of whom rely on diesel-powered generators for electricity, though humanitarian officials warn that the shutdown could further disrupt essential services like clean water and sewage treatment.
Israel’s Energy Minister, Eli Cohen, announced the directive in a video, asserting that Israel would use “all means available” to secure the return of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and reiterated that Hamas would not remain in Gaza after the war. Cohen’s statement follows the latest ceasefire discussions, with Israel seeking to extend the truce until mid-April.
The United Nations has raised concerns about the humanitarian impact of the electricity cutoff, as Gaza’s desalination plants and sewage treatment facilities could be forced to shut down, worsening the region’s already dire conditions.
Hamas, in turn, condemned the move, calling it “unacceptable blackmail.” A senior Hamas official, Izzat al-Rishq, labeled Israel’s decision as “cheap and unacceptable” tactics designed to pressure the Palestinian people and their resistance.
The Israeli decision comes amid rising tensions as both sides struggle to extend the ceasefire, which was meant to be followed by a more permanent resolution. Israel has already suspended aid supplies to Gaza, accusing Hamas of diverting the aid for its own benefit. Despite these measures, Israel continues to carry out military strikes, and local reports indicate casualties from Israeli airstrikes and drone operations.
Israel’s government has made it clear that the release of Israeli hostages, believed to be held by Hamas, is a priority in the ceasefire negotiations. However, Hamas has rejected any extension of the current truce unless its demands are met, which include the release of more Palestinian prisoners and the lifting of the Israeli blockade.
Hamas representatives have met with international mediators in Cairo to push for the resumption of humanitarian aid without conditions. They are also demanding the start of negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire, which is expected to include a permanent end to the war.
The discussions have been complicated by unprecedented talks between the United States and Hamas aimed at securing the release of five American hostages still in Gaza. While these talks are ongoing, the US has expressed cautious optimism, with special envoy Adam Boehler describing the meetings as “helpful” and predicting that a deal could be reached within weeks.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. A truce established in January temporarily halted the fighting that had displaced millions and killed more than 48,000 people, mostly civilians. Following the cessation of aid supplies by Israel, international human rights groups have accused the Israeli government of “weaponizing starvation” in Gaza.
As the situation continues to unfold, Israel’s controversial actions and ongoing military operations in Gaza have sparked debate both domestically and internationally. Meanwhile, Hamas insists that Israel must comply with ceasefire agreements and demands the release of more Palestinian prisoners, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the lifting of the blockade as part of the peace process.
The conflict remains unresolved, with many fearing that any further escalation could lead to more destruction and loss of life in Gaza.
