Gaza Faces Total Blackout as Israel Cuts Electricity Supply, Sparking Humanitarian Concerns
Gaza Faces Total Blackout as Israel Cuts Electricity Supply, Sparking Humanitarian Concerns. The local government of Gaza has confirmed a total blackout following Israel’s decision to cut electricity supplies on Monday, March 10, 2025. Muhammad Tabet, spokesperson for the Gaza Electricity Distribution Company, expressed deep regret over the move, warning that the blackout poses a serious threat to the people of Gaza. According to Tabet, the power outage could lead to a severe health and environmental crisis in the region.
Tabet, quoted by Anadolu Agency, revealed that before the recent Israeli aggression, Tel Afif had supplied 10 electricity channels to Gaza. However, after months of conflict, the electricity network has been almost entirely destroyed. Nearly 70% of the electricity distribution network and 90% of warehouses and storage facilities in Gaza have been completely devastated. Additionally, 90% of the vehicles used for electricity distribution have been severely damaged.
The decision to cut power was announced by Israeli Energy Minister Elicon, who stated on Sunday, March 9, 2025, that he had ordered an immediate halt to electricity supplies to Gaza. In a video statement quoted by Al-Arabiya, Elicon said, “I have signed an order to stop the electricity supply to the Gaza Strip immediately.” He described the move as part of a broader effort to besiege Gaza.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from international observers, including Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur. Albanese warned that the blackout could exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, making it even more difficult for residents to access clean water. “Israel’s actions are a warning of genocide,” Albanese stated. “Without electricity, there is no clean water, and this could lead to catastrophic consequences for the people of Gaza.”
The total blackout has raised alarms about the potential for a worsening humanitarian crisis in the region, with fears of long-term health and environmental impacts. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as tensions remain high.