Israel Launches Major Ground Assault on Central Gaza's Last 'Safe Zone', Sparking Humanitarian Crisis

For the first time since the war began, Israeli ground forces and tanks have entered Deir al-Balah, a central Gaza city that had previously been spared major military operations.

This area, considered a key humanitarian hub and one of the last relatively safe zones, is now under heavy ground and air assault, leading to mass displacement and fears of a collapse in aid services. The offensive comes amid stalled ceasefire and hostage negotiations, with reports of dozens killed and worsening starvation among civilians. Aid groups and international organizations warn that the new evacuation orders and attacks threaten the survival of tens of thousands already displaced Palestinians.

The move has also raised alarm among families of hostages believed to be held in the area, as well as renewed international calls for an end to the conflict.