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Israel has announced that it has cut off electricity to Gaza, seemingly as a tactic to pressure Hamas into accepting changes to the terms of the ceasefire agreement reached in January. Earlier in March, Israel also imposed a blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza, aimed at forcing Hamas to extend the first phase of the ceasefire and release more captives. Israel seeks to avoid moving to the second phase of the ceasefire, which would require a permanent end to the war.
Aid agencies, human rights organizations, and several countries, including some of Israel’s allies, have criticized the decision, citing its severe humanitarian impact and violations of international laws prohibiting the collective punishment of civilians. However, reports from Gaza and media sources suggest that the power cut announcement may not be as drastic as it appears.
What exactly did Israel announce?
Israel declared that it would completely halt the electricity it provides to Gaza. In a social media post on Sunday, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen stated, “I have cut off electricity to the Gaza Strip immediately,” adding, “Enough with the talk, it’s time for action!” However, Israeli media suggests the announcement might be less significant than portrayed.
Does this mean Gaza will go dark?
Gaza was already experiencing significant power shortages. According to The Times of Israel, Israel ceased supplying electricity to Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks, which resulted in 1,139 deaths in southern Israel and the capture of around 250 people. In November, electricity was restored to a desalination plant near Deir el-Balah, which serves approximately 600,000 displaced civilians. The plant will now rely on stored power, generators, and remaining solar panels not destroyed by Israeli shelling.
Did Israel only cut electricity and aid?
No. Israel has also launched military strikes across Gaza and signaled its readiness to resume full-scale fighting. The Gaza Ministry of Health has reported daily casualties during the ceasefire, including attacks in Rafah, where Israel has maintained a military presence despite the ceasefire terms.
How has Hamas responded?
Hamas condemned Israel’s actions as “cheap blackmail.” In a statement, Izzat al-Risheq, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, said, “We strongly condemn the occupation’s decision to cut off electricity to Gaza, after depriving it of food, medicine, and water.” He called the move “a desperate attempt to pressure our people and their resistance” and labeled it a “war crime.”
Who supports Israel in this?
The United States backs Israel’s blockade, which aims to pressure Hamas into complying with a proposal by US envoy Steve Witkoff to extend the ceasefire’s first phase and secure the release of Israeli captives. While Witkoff has not publicly confirmed his role, he has reiterated US support for Israel, including potential joint military action.
Who opposes Israel’s blockade?
Most of the international community has condemned the blockade. Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, key mediators in the ceasefire talks, issued statements criticizing Israel’s decision to block aid. European nations like France, Germany, and the UK jointly stated, “Humanitarian aid should never be contingent on a ceasefire or used as a political tool.” The United Nations, the International Criminal Court, and rights groups such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have also denounced the blockade as a violation of international law and a crime against humanity.
How could this affect negotiations in Qatar?
The impact remains unclear. Hamas claims it has been “flexible” in talks with mediators, including US envoy Adam Boehler, and hopes to proceed to the second phase of the ceasefire as agreed. Meanwhile, Israeli media reports suggest Hamas is considering US demands to extend the current ceasefire for 60 days in exchange for the release of 10 living Israeli captives.
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