Collective punishment? US oil blockade strangles Cuban civilians

Key Concepts

• US Embargo/Blockade: Long-standing US economic sanctions against Cuba, recently intensified with fuel-related tariffs.
• Collective Punishment: The concept, according to international humanitarian law, that targeting the civilian population as a means of political pressure is illegal.
• Fuel Shortage: A critical shortage of petrol and diesel impacting all sectors of Cuban life.
• Economic Strain: The widespread economic hardship experienced by Cubans due to the fuel crisis.
• Resilience: The demonstrated ability of the Cuban people to withstand hardship.

The Intensified Crisis in Cuba: Impact of US Fuel Tariffs

The situation in Havana, Cuba, appears superficially normal – cars are running, shops are open, and daily life continues. However, the country is experiencing a significant and escalating crisis triggered by the Trump administration’s imposition of tariffs on countries shipping fuel to Cuba. This has resulted in a dramatic increase in the black market price of petrol, more than doubling its cost, and a corresponding spike in transport expenses across all sectors.

Disruptions to Essential Services

The fuel shortage is having a devastating impact on essential services. University classes have been cancelled, forcing students to study from home. Rubenera, a student interviewed, expressed fear not only about his ability to graduate but also about potential invasion and a complete collapse of the national power grid. The public healthcare system is severely affected. While vital and emergency surgeries continue, elective procedures have been postponed indefinitely. The National Institute of Gastroenterology, previously operational, is now effectively shut down due to lack of fuel.

Dr. Pablo Giraa highlights the difficult choices healthcare professionals are now forced to make, stating, “The ones who are going to suffer are the people, the weakest, most vulnerable will bear the brunt of this blockade. And these are the same people who the US says they want to save. Yet they are being deprived of healthcare, deprived of electricity, deprived of transportation to get to work because everything depends on fuel.” This illustrates the cascading effect of the fuel shortage, impacting access to basic necessities. Fewer ambulances are being dispatched, exacerbating the situation.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond healthcare and education, the fuel crisis is impacting the entire Cuban economy and social fabric. The report notes a widespread feeling that this is the worst crisis in the island’s recent history. Individuals are contemplating emigration, despite a strong desire to remain in their homeland. One resident expressed a conflicted sentiment: “I’ve asked myself whether if things get really difficult and I have the chance to leave the country, I would do it. I don't like the idea at all. I love my country, my culture, the people, everything. But I don't see any other solution.” This highlights the desperation and lack of perceived alternatives.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Experts in international humanitarian law argue that the US’s economic policies towards Cuba constitute “collective punishment” of the civilian population. This is a violation of international law. The report frames the situation as an “oil blockade,” emphasizing the severe strain placed on the Cuban people.

Resilience and Future Outlook

Despite the dire circumstances, the report acknowledges a remarkable level of resilience among Cubans, noting that hardship is not new to the population. However, the current crisis is unprecedented in its severity. The report concludes with a call to action, encouraging viewers to subscribe to Alazer for “reliable news and expert insights” and to “stay ahead.”