IDF Launches Ground Offensive in Deir al-Balah, Sparking Urgent Humanitarian Concerns

Israeli tanks have for the first time rolled into Deir al-Balah, a city in central Gaza previously untouched by ground operations in the 21-month conflict. The incursion, which began Monday, follows intense aerial and artillery strikes overnight and precedes a planned multi-week maneuver by the IDF’s Golani Brigade.

The operation has triggered immediate alarm among aid agencies and human rights organizations. The UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 people, many already displaced, were in the newly designated evacuation zone. This area notably includes critical humanitarian warehouses, medical facilities, and water infrastructure, raising fears of catastrophic consequences if damaged.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson stated the military is expanding its activities to destroy enemy capabilities and infrastructure in areas not previously targeted. This move comes despite past reluctance by the IDF to operate in Deir al-Balah due to concerns over endangering surviving hostages believed to be held there. The Hostages Families Forum expressed deep alarm, demanding an explanation from the government regarding the risks to captives.

Civilians fleeing the area described chaotic scenes, with tanks appearing without prior warning and intense overnight bombardment. Many were forced to leave with nothing but the clothes on their backs, adding to the already dire humanitarian situation across the Strip. The UN warns that 87.8% of Gaza is now under displacement orders or within Israeli-militarized zones, severely choking humanitarian access and leaving 2.1 million civilians in a fragmented 12% of the territory.

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