The Security Cabinet on Sunday, 17 Sivan, voted to cut electric power to Gaza by 35%. Israel in the past has deducted the money owed for Gaza electricity from PA (Palestinian Authority) tax funds before handing them over but PA Chairman Abu Mazen has announced he is no longer going to flip the entire bill for Hamas’ electricity.

Following the cabinet decision, Israel will continue providing Gaza with 65 million shekels worth of electricity monthly. This mean the already limited amount of electricity received by Gaza homes to a number hours daily, reportedly six.

The forum also discussed the isolation of Qatar and the realization the situation may result in an escalation in Gaza.

With the Arab nations boycotting Qatar, the aide to Gaza may stop or at least be diminished. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-General Gadi Eizenkott and Chief of Intelligence Major-General Chezi Halevy were among those attending the Security Cabinet meeting warning against an increasing humanitarian crisis that will follow these events, leading to growing Israeli concerns. The PA and neighboring Arab nations however do not appear the least bit concerned over the situation in Gaza other than to use it politically against Israel. Many forget that while Israel controls border crossings to Gaza on one side, Egypt controls the other side, which remains closed and Egypt explains itself to no one.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)