In brief
The Israeli military has intensified its activities in central Gaza, specifically in Deir al-Balah, an area previously protected during the ongoing conflict with Hamas. A recent raid on a World Health Organization (W.H.O.) facility has led to heightened tensions and panic among residents seeking refuge.
On July 22, 2025, Israeli troops executed a significant raid on the W.H.O. office in Deir al-Balah. This facility had been a sanctuary for many Palestinians escaping conflict in other regions. According to Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the W.H.O., Israeli forces handcuffed and threatened male staff and family members at gunpoint, while women and children were evacuated. In defense, the Israeli military stated that they responded to gunfire in the area and emphasized that operations were conducted in compliance with international law. Although the military confirmed the raid, they did not provide specifics on the conditions of the detainees. Prior to the raid, Israeli officials warned residents about an impending ground offensive in Deir al-Balah as hostilities continued to escalate without extensive military presence in the city. Following warnings from the military, many residents began to evacuate, fearful of imminent attacks.As the situation unfolds, the extent of Israel's operations in Deir al-Balah remains uncertain, but fears of further confrontations loom large over the Palestinian population in the area.
