The United Nations has confirmed a complete internet blackout in the Gaza Strip, severely disrupting humanitarian aid and emergency services in the besieged enclave. 

The outage, reported on Thursday, is believed to be the result of ongoing military activity that has damaged the last remaining cable providing connectivity to the territory.

Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the UN, told reporters that the loss of connectivity has paralysed critical aid operations. “Lifelines to emergency services, humanitarian coordination, and critical information for civilians have all been cut. There is a full internet blackout, and mobile networks are barely functioning,” he said.

In an already devastated environment, where physical access is heavily restricted and infrastructure widely damaged, the blackout has worsened the situation for civilians and aid workers alike. “Emergency services are cut off, and civilians cannot access life-saving support,” Haq added.

The communications collapse comes as humanitarian agencies struggle to reach those in urgent need across Gaza. With emergency hotlines down and coordination between responders hindered, international organisations warn that aid delivery and medical support are at risk of total breakdown.

The UN has called for immediate action to restore communications and ensure humanitarian access, stressing that continued disruptions will cost more lives in a region already facing immense suffering.

Melissa Enoch

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