Media Wire Express Correspondent
Life in Gaza has grown even more difficult after Israel cut off electricity to the region, deepening the struggles of residents already facing a humanitarian crisis.
The move comes as tensions rise over stalled ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
According to Israeli authorities, the power shutdown is meant to pressure Hamas into agreeing to extend the fragile truce that expired over the weekend. However, for ordinary people in Gaza, the consequences have been immediate and severe. Hospitals, water facilities, and basic services are now operating at a fraction of their capacity, relying on backup generators and solar panels that are far from sufficient.
The situation is yet another challenge for the 2.3 million people living in the densely populated enclave. With electricity gone, water desalination plants have slowed down, sewage systems are failing, and hospitals are struggling to keep vital medical equipment running. “We are running out of fuel for the generators,” said a doctor at Al-Shifa Hospital. “If we don’t get more supplies soon, we won’t be able to keep our intensive care units running.”
Israel’s government has defended the decision, with Energy Minister Eli Cohen stating that it is part of efforts to secure the return of Israeli hostages and weaken Hamas. “We are using all means necessary to dismantle Hamas’ control over Gaza and bring our people home,” Cohen said.
Hamas, on the other hand, has strongly condemned the move, accusing Israel of using civilian suffering as a negotiation tool. The group has called for renewed talks to establish a more lasting peace, including a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an end to military operations.
Also Read; Russia Strikes Ukraine’s Power Plant
Amid Winter
Efforts to revive ceasefire discussions are underway, with mediators from Egypt and Qatar attempting to bring both sides back to the table. An Israeli delegation is expected to travel to Doha for talks aimed at preventing a return to full-scale conflict.
Meanwhile, humanitarian groups and the United Nations have raised concerns about the worsening conditions in Gaza. The UN has criticized the electricity cutoff, calling it collective punishment that disproportionately affects civilians. With Ramadan and Passover approaching, pressure is mounting for both sides to find a resolution before religious tensions further complicate the situation.
For now, families in Gaza are bracing for an even harder struggle, as food, water, and medical supplies grow scarcer. Many are left wondering how long they can endure these conditions before the ceasefire talks lead to real relief.
