**Israel Cuts Off Electricity to Gaza**
On Sunday, Israel cut off all electricity to the Gaza Strip. This move is meant to pressure Hamas to release the remaining Israeli hostages in the territory.
**Population and Aid Cut-Off**
The Gaza Strip has a population of over two million people. Last week, Israel cut off all aid to the territory. The energy minister, Eli Cohen, made the announcement on Sunday.
**Cohen’s Statement**
In a video message, Minister Cohen said: “We will utilize all tools at our disposal in order to bring the hostages back and ensure that Hamas does not remain in Gaza the next day.”
**Effect of Electricity Cut-Off**
The decision to cut off electricity will primarily affect the operation of the desalination plant. This is crucial for providing clean drinking water. The government has said it may also cut off the water supply.
**Ceasefire Talks**
Qatar is expected to resume talks on Monday to extend the fragile ceasefire that ended in its first phase on March 1. Israel wants Hamas to accept an extension of the ceasefire, but Hamas wants to begin negotiations on the second phase, which would include the release of all remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
**Hostages and Bodies**
Hamas is believed to be holding alive 24 hostages, as well as 35 bodies. The militant group has warned that cutting supplies will affect the hostages as well.
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