Communications and internet services were cut off in central and southern parts of Gaza on Sunday evening, marking the first disruption in months, as the Israeli military offensive continues into its 11th consecutive month.
In a brief statement, the Palestinian Telecommunications Company informed Days of Palestine that home internet services had ceased in these areas due to the ongoing Israeli aggression.
The company assured residents that its teams were “working tirelessly” to restore services as soon as possible.
This communication blackout has raised concerns of potential massacres by Israeli forces in the affected areas, as such actions have often preceded intensified military operations. Israeli forces have previously severed communication lines multiple times during their assault on Gaza.
In May, the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy reported that Israeli forces had disrupted Gaza’s communications services more than 10 times since the start of their offensive on October 7th.
A joint statement from the two institutions emphasized that cutting off communication exacerbates the humanitarian crisis, complicates rescue efforts, isolates residents, and severely limits their ability to seek help. It also hinders the work of journalists and correspondents on the ground.
A report by the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor, published in February 2024, documented that Israeli forces had deliberately targeted civilians, including journalists, while attempting to access mobile communications and internet services.
The report noted instances of direct sniper fire and drone attacks against those trying to reconnect with their families or employers across Gaza.
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