Complete Internet and Communication Blackout in Gaza Amid Unprecedented Aerial Strikes

 Complete Internet and Communication Blackout in Gaza Amid Unprecedented Aerial Strikes

The Gaza Strip witnessed a dire escalation of events as the Palestinian territory experienced a total blackout of internet and communications, coupled with unprecedented aerial bombardments, prompting a dire humanitarian crisis. Simultaneously, Israel extended its ground operations, underlining a heavy and unprecedented wave of attacks since the start of the conflict earlier this month.

The Gaza government's official information bureau announced the severance of telecommunications and internet services within the Gaza Strip. In response, they accused the Israeli military of intentionally disrupting these services, alluding to the preparation for more fatalities, concealed from the watchful eyes of the world.

Reports from Al-Aqsa Palestinian TV confirmed that the Israeli military intensified its aerial, naval, and ground strikes across all regions of the Gaza Strip, marking a level of aggression previously unseen. These attacks coincided with a complete cessation of communications within the territory.

The NetBlocks observatory, which monitors internet accessibility, reported on Friday that internet connectivity in the Gaza Strip had utterly collapsed. The direct data indicated a collapse in network connectivity, and this collapse was reported alongside intense shelling.

On the other side of the conflict, an Israeli military spokesperson, Daniel Hagari, confirmed that they would expand their ground operations in the Gaza Strip on Friday night. This expansion followed a series of recent strikes by the Israeli army, resulting in a staggering death toll of 7,326 since the start of the conflict earlier this month.

According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, among these casualties were 3,038 children and 1,726 women, with an additional 18,976 people sustaining various injuries. Furthermore, they reported 1,650 cases of missing persons, including 940 children who remain trapped under the rubble.

The health ministry also highlighted the Israeli violations against the healthcare system, resulting in the loss of 104 medical staff members and the destruction of 25 ambulances, rendering them out of service.

Amid these events, Israeli airstrikes continued for three weeks, with more than 30 Palestinian fatalities and numerous injuries reported on the Gaza Strip's northern periphery on the very same Friday.

Israeli fighter jets relentlessly targeted homes, leading to a significant number of casualties and widespread destruction in the affected areas.

Reuters reported statements from the World Health Organization, stating that their estimates suggested that around 1,000 individuals were still trapped beneath the rubble in Gaza.

During a press conference held by various United Nations organizations in Geneva, the organization emphasized the humanitarian needs in Gaza far surpass the aid that has been delivered. They called for immediate cessation of violence, and the unconditional release of all detained civilians.

The ongoing escalation of violence underscores the profound human tragedy unfolding in Gaza. International organizations and nations are increasing pressure to halt the conflict and establish an immediate and lasting ceasefire to safeguard the lives of civilians and provide essential humanitarian assistance to those in need. It is essential to investigate the violations and crimes against humanity and hold those responsible accountable.

These events reflect the escalating conflict in the Middle East and its catastrophic impact on the civilian population. International efforts must unite to find a peaceful solution to the conflict and bring stability to the region.