Jordan Denounces Israel's Suspension of Power Supply to Gaza

Synopsis

On March 11, Jordan's Foreign Ministry firmly criticized Israel's decision to cut off electricity to Gaza as a means to pressure Hamas for hostage release. The ministry's statement emphasized that this action violates ceasefire agreements and international law, risking further conflict in the region. Calls were made for the restoration of power and humanitarian aid access.

Key Takeaways

Jordan condemns Israel's power cut to Gaza.
Israel's action is a violation of international law.
Humanitarian aid access to Gaza is critically needed.
Negotiations for a ceasefire are reportedly underway.
Hostage situation remains a focal point of tensions.

Amman, March 11 (NationPress) The Foreign Ministry of Jordan has issued a strong condemnation of Israel's recent move to cease electricity supply to Gaza as a tactic to pressure Hamas into freeing hostages.

The ministry's statement highlighted that this action is a blatant continuation of Israel's longstanding policy of blockade and starvation directed towards the Palestinian people, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

This decision is a clear infringement of the ceasefire agreement established between Israel and Hamas, as well as a violation of international law, posing a significant risk of escalating tensions in Gaza, the statement noted.

The ministry called on the global community to pressure Israel to comply with the ceasefire agreement, restore electricity to Gaza, and reopen the designated crossings for humanitarian aid to reach all areas of the besieged enclave, which is currently enduring an unparalleled humanitarian crisis.

On Sunday, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen announced through a video statement that an order had been signed to halt the electricity supply to Gaza immediately.

Cohen explained that this step is intended to coerce Hamas into releasing the hostages still held in Gaza. According to Israeli sources, there are currently 59 hostages in Hamas custody, with approximately 24 believed to be alive.

"We will utilize all available means to ensure the return of all hostages and guarantee that Hamas will not remain in Gaza after the conflict," Cohen stated.

Israel has blocked the entry of aid shipments, including food, into Gaza since March 2, following the expiration of the first 42-day phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire.

Previously, Hamas indicated that there were encouraging signs regarding negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

In the meantime, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that a delegation from Israel would head to Doha for peace talks.

Hamas spokesperson Abdul Latif Al-Qanou commented on Saturday, stating that "the efforts of Egyptian and Qatari mediators are ongoing to finalize the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and initiate negotiations for its second phase, with positive indicators in that direction."