The Israeli military has launched a significant ground and air assault on Deir al-Balah, a central Gaza city previously spared from major attacks during the ongoing war.
This area, considered one of the last relatively safe zones and a hub for humanitarian aid, is now under heavy bombardment and ground incursion, forcing tens of thousands of Palestinians to flee once again. The offensive comes amid stalled ceasefire and hostage negotiations, with international organizations warning that the displacement and attacks could lead to a collapse of humanitarian services and mass civilian deaths from starvation and lack of medical care. Families of hostages and aid groups have expressed alarm, as the area is believed to be near where some hostages are held.
The escalation has drawn condemnation from the UN and renewed calls for an immediate ceasefire.
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