Some Arab countries have lashed out against Israel’s action to shut down electricity supply to Gaza as an affront to human rights and an aggravation of the region’s humanitarian situation. The step has triggered a global outcry, with increased worry over the consequences on hospitals, water services, and basic necessities in the beleaguered enclave.
The United Nations has sounded an alarming warning of the “catastrophic consequences” for Gaza’s 2.3 million inhabitants, with many dependent on scarce electricity to survive. Humanitarian agencies warn that extended power outages may worsen food shortages, block medical assistance, and threaten vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, with extreme danger.
Arab countries such as Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar have urged international intervention to immediately restore power and avert more suffering. They have stated that collective punishment of civilians is against international law and are calling on Israel to rethink its actions. At the same time, diplomatic action is ongoing to push for an emergency resolution in the UN.
As tensions mount, the international community is still at odds on how to tackle the crisis. With increasing pressure on Israel to relax restrictions, the situation in Gaza is still volatile, and the humanitarian cost keeps mounting.
