In a move that has intensified the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Israel has halted its electricity supply to the region following orders from Energy Minister Eli Cohen. This decision comes amid ongoing negotiations with Hamas over the release of hostages, further complicating the already tense situation.

The electricity cut threatens the operation of desalination plants, crucial for providing clean drinking water to Gaza’s population. “We will employ all the tools available to us so that all the hostages will return,” Cohen stated in a video message, underscoring Israel’s determination to leverage utilities as part of its negotiation strategy.

The impact on Gaza’s civilian population is severe, with aid groups warning of dire consequences. The shutdown of the desalination plant could leave hundreds of thousands without access to fresh water, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents in the war-torn territory. “We strongly condemn the occupation’s decision to cut off electricity to Gaza,” said Ezzat al-Rishq, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, describing the move as “cheap and unacceptable blackmail.”

International reactions have been swift, with critics accusing Israel of violating international humanitarian laws. The decision has sparked debates about the legality and morality of using essential services as bargaining chips in conflict negotiations.

As the situation unfolds, media coverage varies widely. Some outlets focus on Israel’s security concerns

 and its vow to use “all tools available” to free hostages, while others highlight the humanitarian impact on Palestinians, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.

With negotiations set to resume, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that balances security needs with humanitarian obligations.