BREAKING: Israeli Forces Launch First Ground Offensive on Deir al-Balah in Central Gaza
Israeli forces have launched a ground and air assault on Deir al-Balah, a densely populated city in central Gaza, marking the first ground offensive in the area since the start of the 21-month-long war against Hamas.
What We Know:
Operation Timing: The offensive began early Monday, with reports of heavy artillery shelling and airstrikes.
Ground Invasion: According to local journalists speaking to the BBC, Israeli tanks and military vehicles advanced into the city with significant air support.
Displacement Crisis: Deir al-Balah currently hosts thousands of displaced people who fled earlier operations in Rafah and Khan Younis. Humanitarian agencies warn that an escalation in the area could further worsen the already dire conditions.
Why It Matters:
This is the first time the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have launched a ground incursion into Deir al-Balah, signaling a potential expansion of military operations beyond southern and northern Gaza. Until now, the city had largely been spared from the kind of intense ground combat seen in other parts of the enclave.
Background:
The offensive comes amid Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Hamas, which has intensified in recent months.
Israel says its operations are aimed at dismantling Hamas’ military infrastructure. However, humanitarian agencies and international observers have raised alarm over civilian casualties, mass displacement, and worsening humanitarian conditions.
Further developments are expected as the situation unfolds.
