In a distressing development, Gaza faces another wave of communication blackout, plunging the region into a ‘near total blackout’ as Israel continues its relentless assault on the southern city.
This recurrence follows the telecommunication blackout in late October, a consequence of Israel’s bombardment that left Gaza’s communication networks severed.
Despite efforts to restore services following widespread condemnation, communication services have been abruptly cut off again, leaving most people in Gaza unreachable by phone.
The Palestinian telecoms company, Paltel, expressed regret, stating, “We regret to announce the complete cessation of the communications and internet services within the Gaza Strip as the main paths that were previously reconnected were disconnected again.”
This blackout not only hampers communication but also impedes the immediate reporting of casualty figures from Israeli attacks and details of ground fighting. Gaza’s communication networks have faced repeated disruptions since the conflict began due to Israeli bombardment.
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Amid the escalating crisis, Abdul Wahab Hamed, who sought refuge in southern Gaza to escape Israeli bombardment, lamented the dire humanitarian situation. Describing the events as “genocide” and “ethnic cleansing,” Hamed emphasized the alarming loss of life and damage in Gaza’s southern region.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pleaded with Israel to avoid actions exacerbating the already catastrophic humanitarian situation, urging the protection of civilians from further suffering.
Guterres emphasized the need for unimpeded humanitarian aid flow and highlighted the lack of safe havens for those ordered to evacuate.
Martin Griffiths, the UN chief for humanitarian affairs, decried the unsafe conditions in the besieged coastal enclave, where people face impossible choices. He called for an end to the blatant disregard for basic humanity.
The casualty figures released by the Palestinian Ministry of Health and the Government Media Office reveal the devastating toll of the conflict. At least 15,523 Palestinians have been killed, with 254 others killed in the West Bank.
Alarming statistics indicate that 70% of those killed are women and children, with 41,316 people wounded since the conflict began. The dire situation is compounded by the challenges of rescuing those still trapped under rubble.
In contrast, casualties in Israel stand at about 1,200 killed and 5,600 injured. Over the weekend, hundreds of Palestinians were killed as Israeli forces ordered more evacuations in and around Khan Younis, the second-largest city in the Gaza Strip.
The ongoing assault raises concerns globally about the consequences of war and Israel’s unrestrained power.
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