Israeli Offensive Targets Central Gaza, Sparks Global Outcry, Concern/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Israeli forces launched a new ground offensive in Deir al-Balah, Gaza’s last major city spared from destruction. The move sparked international condemnation, disrupted aid operations, and killed at least 13 civilians. Humanitarian agencies and world leaders are calling for an immediate end to the war.
Israeli Troop Advance + Quick Looks
- Israeli ground forces entered Deir al-Balah for the first time in the 21-month war
- 13 people killed, including 5 children and 2 women, in overnight strikes
- WHO compound raided, staff detained, aid facilities damaged
- 87.8% of Gaza under evacuation orders or military control
- World Food Program condemns deadly Israeli fire on aid seekers
- 25 nations, including UK and France, demand war’s end
- Israel continues regional strikes, hitting Yemen’s Hodeidah port
Deep Look: Israeli Forces Target Central Gaza’s Deir al-Balah in New Offensive
In a significant escalation, Israeli troops launched a ground assault on Deir al-Balah, the last major Gaza city that had remained largely untouched since the war began nearly two years ago. For months, the city served as a refuge for displaced Palestinians and housed several humanitarian agencies — until now.
The Israeli military dropped evacuation leaflets at dawn on Monday, warning residents to flee immediately. Two hours later, tanks rolled into the area, leveling buildings and pushing deeper into the city. According to Gaza health officials, at least 13 civilians were killed in overnight airstrikes preceding the incursion — including two women and five children.
This marks the first time Israeli forces have entered this part of central Gaza on foot. A senior military source confirmed it was part of an operation to pressure Hamas into releasing approximately 50 remaining hostages, some of whom are believed to be held in the Deir al-Balah region.
However, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a leading Israeli advocacy group, expressed alarm, warning that the move could jeopardize hostages’ lives.
“The people of Israel will not forgive anyone who knowingly endangered the hostages,” they said.
WHO Compound Raided, Staff Interrogated at Gunpoint
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that Israeli troops stormed their main residence in Deir al-Balah. Female staff and children were forced to evacuate on foot, while male staff were handcuffed, stripped, and interrogated at gunpoint. One person remains detained as of Tuesday.
The WHO also confirmed its main warehouse was damaged by an explosion and fire, severely affecting its ability to support medical operations across Gaza.
Separately, two U.N. guesthouses sustained shrapnel damage amid intensified Israeli airstrikes. The U.N. has pledged to continue operations despite increasing danger to international and local staff.
Humanitarian Disaster Deepens
Deir al-Balah had become a central humanitarian zone, housing tens of thousands displaced from northern and southern Gaza. But with the latest military action, nearly 90% of Gaza is now under either direct military control or evacuation orders, leaving 2.1 million Palestinians crowded into just 12% of the territory.
The World Food Program (WFP) issued a rare and strongly worded condemnation after an aid convoy in northern Gaza came under heavy fire. Witnesses and local hospitals confirmed over 50 deaths, while Gaza’s Health Ministry cited at least 80 fatalities. Israel claimed it had only fired warning shots to clear perceived threats.
This is the latest in a disturbing pattern: in recent weeks, hundreds have been killed while attempting to retrieve humanitarian aid, both from U.N. operations and Israeli-backed sites.
Global Condemnation Intensifies
The latest incursion triggered renewed international outrage. A coalition of 25 nations, including the UK, France, Canada, and Australia, released a joint statement saying the war “must end now.” They criticized Israel for restricting humanitarian access and emphasized the urgent need to release the remaining hostages.
Meanwhile, the Gaza Health Ministry reported additional casualties on Monday, including three people killed during gunfire near the Netzarim corridor. Israel’s military provided no comment.
Health Ministry Official Detained, Journalist Killed
Israeli forces reportedly detained Dr. Marwan al-Hams, acting director of Gaza’s field hospitals and spokesperson for the Health Ministry. During the incident, Palestinian journalist Tamer al-Zaanein was shot and killed, and two others were wounded. The International Committee of the Red Cross expressed deep concern over the safety of medical personnel.
Regional Spillover: Israeli Strikes on Yemen Continue
Amid the Gaza escalation, Israeli forces also struck Hodeidah port in Yemen, targeting suspected weapons shipments to Iran-backed Houthi rebels. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that the Houthis “will pay a heavy price” for launching missiles toward Israeli territory.
Gaza’s Devastating Toll
The Gaza Health Ministry now estimates the Palestinian death toll exceeds 59,000, with over half believed to be women and children. Though the ministry operates under Hamas, its figures are widely recognized by the U.N. and humanitarian organizations as the most accurate available.
Israel continues to defend its actions by blaming Hamas for embedding within densely populated civilian zones and rejecting ceasefire proposals.
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