By Dayo Ade Olusola | World News | July 21, 2025
Israel has launched a new ground operation in the central Gaza city of Deir al-Balah, intensifying its months-long military campaign in the besieged Palestinian territory.
Heavy smoke was seen rising from the area on Monday afternoon as Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed troops had entered the city.
The operation comes amid ongoing air and artillery strikes across various parts of Gaza, where fighting between Israel and Hamas shows no signs of slowing.
Footage shared by local media showed columns of tanks and military vehicles moving towards Deir al-Balah, while explosions could be heard in the background. The IDF has not released full details of the latest manoeuvre but said the offensive aims to “eliminate terrorist infrastructure and restore security.”
The densely populated city, located in the central Gaza Strip, is home to tens of thousands of civilians, many of whom have already been displaced by earlier stages of the conflict.
Humanitarian organisations have warned that ongoing combat operations in urban areas are putting immense pressure on civilians and aid delivery efforts.
Israel’s military campaign in Gaza began following the October 2023 attacks by Hamas militants, which killed over 1,200 people and saw hundreds taken hostage.
In response, Israel launched a sustained bombardment and ground invasion, which has resulted in a high civilian death toll and a widespread humanitarian crisis.
Palestinian health authorities say over 38,000 people have been killed since the war began, many of them women and children. The latest incursion in Deir al Balah adds to fears that no part of Gaza remains safe for civilians.
Aid agencies, including the United Nations, have repeatedly called for a ceasefire to allow for the evacuation of the wounded and delivery of essential supplies. However, diplomatic efforts have so far failed to produce a lasting truce.
The IDF maintains that its operations are focused on dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities and locating the remaining hostages believed to be held inside Gaza.
In a brief statement, the Israeli military said it would “continue to operate wherever necessary to neutralise threats and protect Israeli citizens.” There was no immediate comment from Hamas regarding the situation in Deir al Balah.
As the ground operation unfolds, global calls are mounting for restraint and for renewed efforts toward a political resolution to the conflict.
