Gaza’s population is experiencing limited communication with the outside world due to ongoing bombing by Israeli jets. Israeli troops have been sent in and continue to operate on the ground, targeting Hamas militants who Israel claims have killed 1,400 Israelis. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that they have attacked terrorist operatives of all ranks across various locations. Although there has been no indication of a full-scale ground invasion, Israel has advised Gaza’s 2.3 million people to move away from the northern area, citing Hamas’ presence in civilian buildings. Palestinians argue that nowhere is safe as bombs have also destroyed homes in the southern part of the densely populated territory.
Since Friday evening, Gaza’s phone and internet services have been largely cut off, which the Palestinian Red Crescent attributes to Israel. Aid agencies warn of a humanitarian catastrophe for Gazans who are already under a complete Israeli blockade. Health authorities in the territory report that 7,650 Palestinians have been killed since the start of Israel’s bombardment. The head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, emphasized that the communication blackout is impeding ambulance services, patient evacuations, and access to safe shelter.
While aid agencies struggle to reach their staff, a representative from the International Committees of the Red Cross and Red Crescent managed to send an audio message sharing the challenges faced by medics working tirelessly amidst personal tragedies. Journalists who were able to communicate with the outside world depicted a nightmarish situation, with limited access to emergency services or communication networks.
In a show of support, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk offered assistance from his Starlink satellite network to facilitate communication for internationally recognized aid organizations operating in Gaza.