Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza's last power facility
What's the story
Israel has cut off electricity supply to Gaza's last facility that was still receiving power from the Israel Electric Corporation. The decision was announced by Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen, who said, "I just signed an order for the immediate halt of electricity to the Gaza Strip." "We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after," he added.
Confirmation
IEC confirms disconnection of electricity supply
The Israel Electric Corporation (IEC) confirmed that the power supply to the facility has been cut. An IEC spokesperson told CNN, "Today, a directive was received to disconnect the (electricity) to the facility, and this was done." Cohen made the announcement last week after Israel cut off all aid supplies to the territory, which has a population of over two million people.
Criticism
Hamas spokesperson criticizes Israel's decision
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem has condemned Israel's decision to cut the electricity supply, saying it will have little impact on the ground as power had already been cut earlier. He called the move "behavior that confirms the occupation's intent to continue its genocidal war against Gaza." Qassem also criticized Israel for adopting starvation policies in its war against Gaza.
Escalation
Israeli politician advocates for further action
Far-right Israeli politician Itamar Ben Gvir welcomed the decision to cut the supply of electricity and called on the government to take more drastic steps. He suggested targeting the fuel supplies that entered Gaza after a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. "The Gaza Strip must be completely and immediately blacked out as long as even one Israeli hostage is being held there," he said.
Negotiations
Ongoing negotiations for ceasefire and hostage exchange
Talks to extend the shaky truce, the first phase of which ended on March 1, are due to begin in Qatar on Monday. Israel wants Hamas to agree to an extension of the first phase. However, Hamas wants to begin negotiations on the second phase of the truce, which would include the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli soldiers, and an end to the war.