Israel Cuts Power to Gaza, Threatening Water Supply Amid Hostage Negotiations

Israel has cut off electricity supplies to Gaza, severely impacting a desalination plant that provides drinking water to approximately half a million people. This move follows Israel's suspension of goods to the territory, which has been described by Hamas as part of a 'starvation policy.' While Israel seeks to extend a ceasefire with Hamas, requiring the release of half of the remaining hostages, Hamas is pushing for negotiations on a more comprehensive agreement that includes withdrawing Israeli forces and releasing all hostages. The desalination plant, which previously produced 18,000 cubic meters of water daily, can now only operate at a significantly reduced capacity. The situation has raised concerns regarding the humanitarian impact on the Palestinian population in Gaza, as facilities like hospitals increasingly rely on generators amid a broader infrastructure collapse. As negotiations continue, Israel plans to send a delegation to Qatar to further discussions with mediating countries, backed by the US.