Israel Launches Large-scale Ground Operations In Central Gaza For The First Time
- 20.07.2025, 12:45
- 2,668

The military ordered the evacuation of civilians.
The IDF announced the start of ground operations in Deir al-Balah, one of the few areas in the center of the Gaza Strip. However, the army had not previously used a ground offensive.
The Times of Israel reports The Times of Israel.
The military ordered the evacuation of civilians from the southwestern part of the city in preparation for expanded fighting.
"The Israel Defense Forces continue to act with great force to destroy enemy capabilities and terrorist infrastructure in the area, expanding into territory where it has not previously operated," IDF spokesman Col. Colonel Avihai Adrai said.
The decision to launch an offensive in Deir al-Balah comes amid protracted ceasefire talks in Qatar, where Israel accuses Hamas of delaying its response to the proposals.
At the same time, thousands of protesters in Tel Aviv are demanding the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Deir al-Balah has long been held by militants, who the Israeli military estimates are holding prisoners there.