Gaza faces severe energy crisis amid fuel and gas shortages

Ahmed Al-Helou, head of the Association of Petroleum and Gas Companies in the Gaza Strip, has reported a severe energy crisis caused by Israeli control over the volume of gas and fuel entering the territory. Current supplies have dropped to unprecedented lows, with only four to five gas trucks entering daily, significantly below the agreed minimum requirement of 19 to 20 trucks.

The shortage has caused catastrophic impacts on hospitals, bakeries, and essential services. A black market has emerged, with gas cylinder prices soaring to 1,200 shekels, a cost unaffordable for most residents. Additionally, there is a near-total absence of diesel and gasoline, and a critical shortage of engine and generator oils. Generator oil prices have reportedly reached 3,000 shekels per liter.

Al-Helou noted that while official communications have been sent to Israeli authorities to increase supplies, no results have been achieved. He issued an urgent appeal to the international community to intervene and pressure for increased energy access to support the population.