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Amid the communications blackout in war-torn Gaza, SpaceX founder Elon Musk has announced that his satellite-based communications system Starlink will provide support to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza. Musk made this announcement on X, formerly Twitter, in response to a statement by United States Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez condemning the cutoff of communications in Gaza as “unacceptable.”

Israel recently expanded its ground operation in Gaza, using infantry and armored vehicles backed by airstrikes and naval strikes to target Hamas tunnels. These actions have resulted in a near-blackout of information and a loss of communication for the 2.3 million people living in Gaza.

The #starlinkforgaza hashtag has been trending on Twitter since the communications blockade, highlighting the urgent need for connectivity in the region. The United Nations health agency and other aid groups have expressed their inability to communicate with their teams in Gaza during the intense bombardment. The blackout has hindered the ability of ambulances to reach the injured, heightening concerns for the safety of the affected population.

Tedros Adhanom, the head of the World Health Organization, stated that they are still unable to reach their staff and health facilities in Gaza, adding that the reports of intense bombardment and the blackout are extremely distressing. Additionally, Cindy McCain, executive director of the World Food Program, expressed extreme worry for the safety of aid workers and civilians in Gaza and emphasized the urgency for humanity to prevail.

UNWRA, the United Nations agency for refugees, reported that 58 of its staff members have been killed by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza as of Friday.

The announcement by Elon Musk that Starlink will support connectivity to aid organizations in Gaza brings hope for improved communication and assistance during this humanitarian crisis.

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