Israel Cuts Electricity to Gaza as Hostage Negotiations Stall

The decision impacts Gaza's water supply and intensifies pressure on Hamas to release remaining hostages while ceasefire talks face challenges.

Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen ordered an immediate halt to electricity supply to Gaza, citing efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas.
The electricity cutoff threatens the operation of Gaza's only functioning desalination plant, further straining access to clean water for over 2 million residents.
Hamas has rejected Israel's push to extend the current ceasefire phase and insists on moving forward with negotiations for a permanent truce and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Direct U.S. talks with Hamas continue, with American envoy Adam Boehler expressing optimism for a potential hostage release deal within weeks.
The ongoing blockade and recent airstrikes have drawn international criticism, with humanitarian groups warning of severe consequences for Gaza's civilian population.