Israel Cuts Power to Gaza Amid Escalating Tensions with Hamas

Israel has taken a significant step in its strategy to pressure Hamas, with Energy Minister Eli Cohen announcing on Sunday that Israel will immediately halt the supply of electricity to Gaza. This decision is part of a broader Israeli plan aimed at weakening Hamas and ensuring the safe return of hostages held in Gaza.

Cohen emphasized the severity of the action, stating, “We will activate every tool we have to ensure our hostages return home and Hamas is not in Gaza after the war.” His announcement was quickly followed by the signing of an official order to cut off the electricity supply to the Gaza Strip.

This decision follows earlier reports, such as those from the Wall Street Journal, outlining Israel’s step-by-step strategy to intensify pressure on Hamas. The plan began with blocking the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza, with the next phase being the cessation of vital services such as electricity and water.

The Impact on Gaza’s Infrastructure

In a move to help maintain basic services in Gaza, Israel had connected a water facility to its electric grid in July, providing up to 20,000 liters of water per day. However, this humanitarian initiative is now being reversed as part of the broader strategy to weaken Hamas's control over Gaza.

The cessation of electricity will have widespread effects on Gaza’s already fragile infrastructure, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis for its residents, many of whom rely on basic utilities for daily survival.

International Reactions and Escalating Tensions

The decision has sparked global debate, with the U.S. playing a prominent role in Israel's actions. President Donald Trump and his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff have backed Israel’s decision, especially after Trump threatened Hamas with dire consequences if they do not release hostages. Trump’s warning also included the potential for a return to war should Hamas refuse to comply.

Israeli security analysts suggest that if economic and infrastructure pressures fail to yield results, Israel may resort to targeted airstrikes and special forces operations aimed at neutralizing Hamas leadership and military positions.

The Israeli government is also considering the forced evacuation of Palestinians who recently returned to northern Gaza during a ceasefire, should the pressure tactics continue to escalate. While these measures are designed to target Hamas, they also bring into focus the broader humanitarian crisis faced by Gaza’s civilian population, many of whom are already suffering from the conflict.