Israel Cuts Electricity to Gaza Ahead of Ceasefire Talks in Qatar
As negotiators prepare to meet in Qatar for renewed ceasefire discussions, Israel has cut off electricity to a key desalination plant in Gaza, a move that has drawn strong criticism from Hamas.
The talks, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, aim to revive a truce and address the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Israel’s delegation is expected to arrive in Doha to continue discussions on extending the ceasefire, which previously led to the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. The Israeli government is pressing Hamas to release half of the remaining hostages in exchange for a commitment to further negotiations. Hamas, however, has insisted on addressing broader issues, including the full withdrawal of Israeli forces and long-term peace.
A Hamas spokesperson stated that the group had “softened” its demands at the request of mediators, including former US President Donald Trump’s envoy, and is waiting for Israel to agree to proceed with the next phase of the ceasefire agreement.
Israel’s decision to halt electricity supply affects a desalination plant in Gaza’s Deir al-Balah area, which had been providing 18,000 cubic meters of drinking water daily. With limited fuel and infrastructure damage, the plant is expected to operate at a drastically reduced capacity.
Hamas has condemned the move as “blackmail” and part of a broader Israeli strategy to pressure the group in negotiations. Israel’s Energy Minister Eli Cohen defended the decision, stating that all available measures would be used to ensure the return of hostages and prevent Hamas from remaining in power in Gaza.
The cutoff comes as Israel continues to restrict fuel shipments into Gaza, affecting hospitals, water distribution, and essential services. The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have warned of worsening conditions, with the UN human rights office cautioning that withholding essential supplies could amount to collective punishment.
The ceasefire negotiations come amid heightened tensions and international scrutiny. The International Criminal Court previously accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war, allegations Israel has denied, blaming logistical issues and Hamas’ alleged interference with aid distribution.
Meanwhile, Hamas has warned that restricting essential supplies could jeopardize hostage negotiations. The group has also proposed establishing an independent committee to manage Gaza until elections are held, though Israel has insisted that Hamas should play no role in Gaza’s future governance.
With input from the Guardian, Al Jazeera, ABC News, and the New York Times.
