Israel to Cut Off Electricity to Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict

Israel has announced it will immediately cut off electricity to the Gaza Strip, citing Hamas' ongoing exploitation of humanitarian aid and its rejection of ceasefire efforts. Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen confirmed the decision on Sunday, emphasizing the need for decisive action.

“I have signed an order to immediately cut off electricity to the Gaza Strip. Enough talk, it’s time for action!” Cohen declared in a post on X.

The move follows Israel’s broader suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza last week after Hamas refused a ceasefire proposal brokered by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that no goods or supplies would enter Gaza "until further notice," underscoring Israel’s stance that Hamas has stockpiled ample resources while civilians continue to suffer.

Since the ceasefire began on January 19, over 25,000 aid trucks carrying essential supplies have entered Gaza, along with more than half a million tents and 2,100 fuel tankers. Israeli officials estimate that Hamas has hoarded enough supplies to sustain itself for four to six months.

“There is no shortage of essential products in the Strip whatsoever,” the Israeli Foreign Ministry stated, rejecting claims by European leaders that the population of Gaza is facing severe shortages.

The foreign ministers of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on March 5 urging Israel to uphold its “international obligations” and allow “unhindered humanitarian assistance.” In response, Israel’s Foreign Ministry referenced former U.S. President Joe Biden’s statement from October 2023: “If Hamas diverts or steals aid, it will stop the international community from being able to provide it.”

Israeli officials have repeatedly warned that aid delivered to Gaza has been seized by Hamas, which resells it to fund its terror operations. Reports indicate that stolen humanitarian aid has generated an estimated half a billion dollars for the terror group since the start of the conflict.

“Aid that goes to Hamas is not humanitarian,” the Foreign Ministry asserted. “Enabling the enemy to resupply itself so it can regroup and attack you again is not humanitarian—it is suicidal and will not be allowed.”

David Mencer, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, reinforced this message, stating: “Hamas systematically takes the humanitarian aid and sells it to support their own terror. Hamas could be humanitarian, but they’ve in fact been barbarian.”

While Israel has agreed to send a delegation to Doha for further negotiations, officials maintain that Hamas’ refusal to release hostages or halt its attacks leaves no room for concessions. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Israel’s efforts to secure peace and stability.