Israel Hamas war: Internet and phone lines cut off in Gaza

Internet and telephone networks cut off in Gaza

The Palestinian telecommunications operator Paltel announced on Wednesday there has been a “total” cut of telephone and internet lines in Gaza. 

Watchdog Netblocks confirmed “the Gaza Strip is experiencing a new internet outage with a significant impact on the operator Paltel.” 

The incident means “a complete loss of telecommunications for most residents”, it added. 

An AFP journalist in Gaza previously said access to the telecommunications network was only possible thanks to his international SIM card.

Communications were cut in the Gaza Strip on Friday as Israel carried out intense strikes on the Palestinian territory, depriving its 2.4 million inhabitants of contact with the outside world. They were gradually restored from Sunday.

Human Rights Watch expressed concern at the time such a cut would serve as a “cover for mass atrocities”.

More than 8,500 people, mostly civilians, have already been killed in Gaza since the start of the Israel Hamas war, according to the encave’s health ministry. 

In Israel, more than 1,400 people were killed in Hamas’ 7 October attack, according to Israeli authorities.