For the first time since the war began nearly two years ago, Israeli ground forces have launched a direct assault on the city of Deir al-Balah in central Gaza. Backed by heavy airstrikes and artillery fire, military tanks and vehicles entered the city early Monday, sending shockwaves through an already traumatized population.
The area, already overwhelmed with displaced families from southern regions like Rafah and Khan Younis, saw another wave of panic and evacuation as residents fled with whatever they could carry—some using bicycles, carts, or traveling on foot. Many headed westward toward the coastal zone of al-Mawasi, one of the last remaining areas considered relatively safer.
Heavy shelling reportedly targeted residential neighborhoods, and the sounds of gunfire and explosions filled the night. This new push raises concerns that a fresh corridor could be forming—one that might cut off Deir al-Balah from surrounding parts of Gaza, further fracturing an already fragmented territory.
At the same time, distressing news has emerged from hospitals in the area. Medical staff are reporting a dire situation, with at least 19 people—many of them children—dying from hunger in just 24 hours. Hospitals are no longer able to feed their patients or even their staff. Basic necessities like baby formula have completely vanished from the market.
Residents are struggling not just with the violence, but with the complete collapse of essential services. Aid workers, some of whom have chosen to stay in the heart of the crisis, describe the fear, exhaustion, and hunger as overwhelming. Despite the danger, they continue to support civilians in any way they can.
The latest evacuation orders came just a day before the assault, triggering fear among both Palestinians and the families of Israeli hostages thought to be held in the area. With entire neighborhoods turned into temporary camps, any escalation now brings further risk to those who have already lost everything.
As the situation evolves, the people of Deir al-Balah find themselves once again forced to run—not knowing if or when they’ll be able to return.