Gaza Plunged into Darkness: Israel's Intensified Strikes Cause Total Communication Blackout
A near-total blackout of internet and cellphone service has occurred in Gaza as a result of heavy Israeli bombing, destroying the last remaining infrastructure connecting the region to the global internet. The largest telecommunications provider, Paltel, announced a complete severance of all communications and internet services. This blackout is the largest disruption to internet connectivity in Gaza since the conflict began, severely limiting residents' ability to communicate with the outside world. The Palestine Red Crescent Society expressed concern about the impact on emergency medical services. Telecommunications services in Gaza were already degraded due to power cuts and limited fuel supplies. Israel has increased bombing in Gaza, targeting infrastructure it claims is used by terrorists.