Israel’s Energy Minister, Eli Cohen, announced on Sunday that he had signed an order to cut off electricity supply to the Gaza Strip, a move expected to severely impact essential services, particularly water supply, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the region. This decision comes a week after Israel halted all humanitarian aid to Gaza, an act condemned by international law as a potential war crime.
Cohen defended the decision on social media, declaring, “Enough with the talk, it’s time for action!” His announcement coincided with ongoing discussions between Israel and Hamas, signaling preparations for the next phase of ceasefire negotiations. On Saturday, Israel confirmed its participation in ceasefire talks and agreed to send a delegation to Doha, Qatar, on Monday following an invitation from mediators backed by the United States. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office reiterated Israel’s commitment to mediation efforts.
The decision to cut off aid and electricity has drawn strong criticism from international bodies. Tom Fletcher, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, emphasized that international law mandates unhindered access to lifesaving aid. He called for a ceasefire and uninterrupted humanitarian assistance to Gaza. UNICEF warned that the electricity and aid cuts would have devastating consequences, particularly for children and families already struggling to survive the ongoing conflict.
On March 4, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted severe health risks due to the lack of water and sanitation, disproportionately affecting women and girls. A female doctor from North Gaza reported distressing conditions, with women resorting to makeshift sanitary pads due to the unavailability of hygiene products. Despite efforts by humanitarian groups, including the distribution of 90,000 dignity kits since the ceasefire began, the blockade and electricity cuts threaten to reverse progress. WHO has also provided sanitation supplies to over 77,000 women and girls, but the worsening situation puts thousands more at risk.
As international pressure mounts, rights organizations continue to demand Israel lift the blockade and restore essential services to Gaza. The humanitarian crisis remains dire, with critical aid blocked and no immediate resolution in sight.
