Saudi Arabia has led regional condemnation of Israel’s decision to sever electricity supply to the war-torn Gaza Strip, joining Qatar and Jordan in calling for urgent international intervention.
On Sunday, Israel announced it was disconnecting the sole power line supplying a water desalination plant in Gaza, citing efforts to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages amid stalled truce negotiations.
The Saudi foreign ministry strongly denounced the move as a form of “collective punishment” against Palestinians and urged the international community to take immediate steps to restore electricity and ensure the unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid. The Kingdom also called for international accountability for such violations.
Qatar’s foreign ministry echoed these concerns, labeling the electricity cut “a blatant violation of international humanitarian law” and urging swift action to protect the Palestinian population.
Jordanian foreign ministry spokesperson Sufyan Qudah described the measure as part of Israel’s broader “policy of starvation and siege,” particularly after Israeli authorities had recently blocked aid deliveries to Gaza. He called on the global community to hold Israel accountable and ensure border crossings remain open for humanitarian assistance.
The United Nations has warned of severe consequences for Gaza’s population, while the UK expressed “deep concern” over Israel’s decision. Meanwhile, Israeli negotiators are expected to meet with mediators in Qatar to discuss the possibility of extending the fragile ceasefire in place since January.
