In response to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's criticism of the cutoff of communications and internet in the Gaza Strip, Elon Musk has promised to provide Starlink internet access to aid organizations in Gaza. Ocasio-Cortez had questioned how anyone could defend "such an act" after the complete cut-off of internet access and phone network in Gaza on Friday. Musk's Starlink is a satellite network developed by SpaceX that aims to provide low-cost internet to remote locations. The network consists of satellites with a lifespan of approximately five years, and SpaceX plans to eventually have 42,000 satellites in operation.

The cutoff of communication in Gaza came amid intense Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian territory, with Hamas accusing Israel of taking the measure to facilitate "massacres with bloody retaliatory strikes." The Palestinian Red Crescent Society expressed deep concern over the hindrance to their emergency response efforts due to the disruption of communication, which affects the central emergency number and ambulance services. Musk's offer to provide Starlink internet access to aid organizations in Gaza could help alleviate this problem.

It remains to be seen how the Starlink connection will be implemented and whether it will be used solely by aid organizations and not Hamas. SpaceX has not yet responded to requests for comment on this matter. Nonetheless, Musk's promise to provide internet connectivity to Gaza showcases the potential of satellite networks like Starlink to bridge the digital divide in remote and underserved areas.

Sources:

- BBC News - https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-59028455

- Reuters - https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/elon-musk-says-starlink-internet-will-be-used-by-aid-groups-gaza-2023-10-28/