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Elon Musk has extended an offer to provide his Starlink satellite internet service to humanitarian aid organizations in Gaza amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Considering the severe disruption of internet and telephone communication in the region due to airstrikes and ground campaigns by the Israeli military, Musk’s offer aims to assist civilians and aid organizations in their communication efforts.

Musk has committed to granting access to “internationally recognized” aid organizations, acknowledging the urgent need for communication capabilities for both those in Gaza and the organizations providing assistance. However, the timeline for aid groups to avail the service remains unclear, as it requires specific equipment.

This offer from Musk followed criticism from Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), who condemned Israel’s decision to cut off communication in Gaza. Ocasio-Cortez emphasized the danger such measures pose to journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocent civilians, urging against the practice.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue airstrikes until the release of the more than 200 individuals who were taken hostage in Hamas’s surprise attack. As of now, four have been released. The conflict initiated by Hamas has already caused the death of over 1,400 people. In retaliation, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of more than 7,300 Palestinians, according to The Hill.

It is worth noting that Musk previously provided a similar offer to Ukraine during its invasion by Russia. In that case, Starlink access was granted to Ukraine exclusively for defensive operations.

The use of Starlink’s satellite internet service holds the potential to alleviate communication challenges faced by aid organizations operating in Gaza during the ongoing conflict.

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