Communication and Internet Severed in Gaza: Palestinian Telco Announces Total Disconnection
THIRD VISIT FROM BLINKEN TO ISRAEL
US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, has made his third visit to Israel since the war began. Blinken’s visit included a surprise meeting with Palestinian leader, Mahmoud Abbas, in Ramallah. During the meeting, Abbas urged Blinken to facilitate an immediate ceasefire and provide humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. Blinken also emphasized the importance of preventing the forced displacement of Palestinians.
In a concerning development, Hamas’s armed wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, reported that at least 60 hostages have died due to Israeli air strikes since October 7th. Some of the victims’ bodies are still trapped under the rubble. On the other hand, the Israeli army claims that 242 Israelis are held hostage.
Qatar, which is mediating the hostage situation, believes that a calm environment is necessary to make progress on the issue.
“There will be no ceasefire until the hostages return”
Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, remains adamant about continuing the attacks and stated that there will be no ceasefire until the hostages are returned.
“A nuclear bomb on Gaza is among the possibilities”
Israeli Minister of Jerusalem and the Promised Land, Amichai Eliyahu, caused controversy with his recent comments. Speaking on a radio program, Eliyahu suggested that dropping a nuclear bomb on Gaza was one of the potential courses of action. He also questioned why the lives of hostages were considered more important than the lives of soldiers. The Israeli Prime Ministry condemned Eliyahu’s remarks as disconnected from reality and suspended him from cabinet meetings indefinitely.
Hamas spokesman condemned Eliyahu’s statement, describing it as a reflection of the Israeli government’s terrorism. The families of Israeli prisoners expressed shock at the Minister’s words.
Communications and internet access cut off in Gaza
The gravity of the situation in the region was further underscored by a statement from the Palestinian telecommunications company, Paltel. According to their announcement, communication and internet access have been completely cut off in Gaza.
The ongoing conflict in Israel and the Palestinian territories continues to escalate, with the need for an immediate ceasefire and aid becoming increasingly urgent. The international community, including the United States, plays a critical role in facilitating peace talks and ensuring the safety and well-being of all those affected by the conflict.
