Israel has announced that it is cutting off its electricity supply to Gaza, following its decision to cut off all supplies of goods to the territory. The full effects of this decision are not immediately clear, but it is known that the territory's desalination plants rely on electricity for producing drinking water. The move comes as Israel seeks to press Hamas to accept an extension of the first phase of their ceasefire, while Hamas is pushing to start negotiations on the ceasefire's more difficult second phase. The ceasefire has paused the deadliest and most destructive fighting ever between Israel and Hamas, which was sparked by a Hamas-led attack in 2023. The White House has confirmed direct U.S. talks with Hamas, and there is hope for a long-term truce and the release of all hostages.