Israel suspends supply of electricity to Gaza

Hamas describes act as 'unacceptable blackmail' ahead of new cease-fire talks

JERUSALEM — Israel ordered an immediate halt to Gaza's electricity supply on Sunday in an effort to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages, even as it prepared for fresh talks on the future of its truce with the Palestinian group.

The decision came a week after it blocked all aid supplies to the enclave, a move reminiscent of the initial days of the conflict when Israel announced a "siege" on Gaza.

Hamas described the electricity cut as "blackmail", a term it had also used after Israel blocked the entry of aid.