again severed all internet and telephone connections to the Gaza Strip, plunging the territory into a communications blackout for the third time since the onset of recent hostilities.
The latest shutdown occurred on Sunday night, with Paltel Communications Company, the primary telecommunications provider in the area, confirming the complete suspension of services. “We regret to announce a total cessation of all communications and Internet services with the Gaza Strip, due to the disruption of main lines previously restored, now cut off again from the Israeli side,” a statement from Paltel read.
This tactical move comes as the Israeli military intensifies its operations in Gaza. Journalist Wael Al-Dahdouh conveyed the gravity of the situation on the ground, describing the recent bombings as “the most violent since the aggression began.” Residents of Gaza have found themselves isolated from the world, unable to reach out for help or connect with loved ones outside the conflict zone.
The first communications outage in Gaza lasted for an arduous 36 hours, with a second, shorter interruption following. The duration of the current blackout remains uncertain, with no clear indication from authorities as to when connectivity would be restored. Humanitarian organizations and international observers have called for an immediate ceasefire, emphasizing the critical need for open lines of communication during such crises.
The humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict is mounting, with the death toll reaching a harrowing 9,770, according to recent reports. This figure includes 4,800 children and 2,550 women, making the current escalation one of the deadliest in recent history.
Amidst these developments, the international community watches with concern, urging for a de-escalation of hostilities and the restoration of communication services to facilitate emergency responses and the delivery of essential information to the citizens of Gaza.
