Gaza city: The Israeli army on Monday initiated a new ground offensive in Deir al-Balah, a city located in the central Gaza Strip, according to local media reports. Channel 14, a private Hebrew-language broadcaster, reported that forces from the Israeli army's Golani Brigade entered the city early Monday, but further details were not provided.

According to Anadolu Agency, army spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued an evacuation order for civilians residing in the southwestern part of Deir al-Balah. The order included specific blocks such as 130, 132-134, 136, 139, and 2351, as well as those taking shelter in tents, instructing them to relocate south to the Al-Mawasi area in Khan Younis. This warning led to a significant displacement of residents from the specified neighborhoods early Monday, with many expressing uncertainty about their next destination as Israel continues its airstrikes, even targeting areas previously designated as 'safe zones.'

Monday's ground operation marks the first of its kind in Deir al-Balah since the onset of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, which began in October 2023. Since October 7, 2023, the Israeli army has been responsible for the deaths of over 59,000 Palestinians, the majority of whom were women and children. The continuous bombardment has devastated the region, severely impacted its healthcare infrastructure, and led to conditions akin to famine.

In November of last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice due to its actions in the enclave.