Israeli pressure on Hamas is gradually escalating, with all supplies to Gaza now cut off with the exception of water.
The move, which includes halting food and fuel shipments, was further intensified Sunday when Israel ordered a complete cutoff of electricity to the central Gaza desalination plant.
This marks a sharp shift in Israel’s approach following the expiration of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire, amid stalled negotiations over the release of remaining Israeli hostages.
Israeli officials defended the aid suspension, asserting that Hamas has hoarded large stockpiles of supplies and is withholding them from Gaza’s civilian population.
Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen announced the electricity cutoff on Sunday, declaring that Israel will use all the tools at its disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after the war. [Read More: 5 Reasons Gaza’s Future Looks Hopeless]
Estimating Gaza’s stockpiles
According to N12 News, Israeli estimates suggest that Hamas has stockpiled enough supplies, including food and fuel, for approximately 45 days. This figure contrasts with earlier projections from Israeli sources, which in late February estimated that Hamas had reserves sufficient for 4-6 months.
The discrepancy highlights the challenge of accurately assessing Hamas’ stockpiles. The true scale of Gaza’s remaining resources is speculative, with accurate assessments nearly impossible given the territory’s chaotic conditions, limited access, and Hamas manipulation.
Meanwhile, International aid organizations estimate that Hamas possesses enough fuel to power generators for a 45-day period, Kan News reported.
Israel’s decision to suspend aid and electricity comes as part of a broader strategy to compel Hamas to hand over the remaining 20-24 living hostages as well as over 30 bodies.
However, despite the escalating measures, Israel has refrained from resuming large-scale military operations in Gaza, a threat it has repeatedly dangled since the ceasefire’s expiration.
For now, the US is pressing Israel to secure more hostage release deals, while the IDF continues to prepare forces and military gear for a potential assault on Gaza.
