Israeli troops have launched their first ground operation in the Deir al-Balah region

Israeli troops have launched their first ground operation in the Deir al-Balah region of central Gaza since the war began. Earlier reports from Gaza indicated that IDF tanks advanced into the southern and eastern parts of the city, with several casualties reportedly caused by tank fire.

The move follows an evacuation warning issued by the IDF yesterday for parts of southwestern Deir al-Balah, ahead of expected military activity.

The ground incursion comes after a night and morning of intensified artillery shelling and airstrikes in the area. The IDF has not yet released an official statement on the operation.