Gazans’ dependence on electricity takes on a new dimension with the closure of the only power plant in the Gaza Strip following the siege imposed by Israel. Since then, people have found themselves in a constant challenge to charge their phones in order to stay in touch with their loved ones. This desperate situation is pushing Gazans to organize and line up in the streets to benefit from a temporary source of energy.
In these moments of calm, when Israeli strikes are temporarily suspended, power strips are installed in the streets and powered by the batteries of cars still on the road. Queues are getting longer and Gazans are patiently waiting for their turn to charge their phones.
The importance of these recharges goes far beyond simple telephone conversations. For many Gazans, these calls are a way to reassure their family and loved ones that they are safe in a precarious and dangerous environment. Some of them have had their homes destroyed and fear for the lives of their loved ones. For them, every battery percentage is precious and represents a chance to stay connected to their loved ones.
But the electricity crisis is not limited to phone charging. Power cuts are impacting every aspect of daily life in Gaza. Critical infrastructure, such as hospitals and water systems, now relies on backup generators, which, in turn, are powered by increasingly scarce fuel. This situation, aggravated by the shortage of water, which is only distributed every two days for a few hours, endangers the health and well-being of the population.
This is a catastrophic situation for the 2.4 million Gazans, who depend on humanitarian aid to survive. The issue of electricity becomes a matter of life and death, as it affects not only communications, but also access to health care, clean water and other essential needs.
Faced with this crisis, the international community must take measures to alleviate the suffering of the people of Gaza. It is imperative to end the siege and allow the region’s only power plant to operate normally. Additionally, measures must be taken to ensure a regular supply of energy, water and other essential resources to the population of Gaza.
In the meantime, Gazans will continue to queue and look for alternatives to charge their phones and stay in touch with their families. This emergency situation recalls the crucial importance of electricity in our modern lives and highlights the injustice of a population who are deprived of this fundamental right.