Israel has launched a ground and air assault on the central Gazan city of Deir al-Balah, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. The fresh evacuation order in the densely populated area could displace up to 80,000, while around 30,000 are already displaced and living in dozens of refugee camps there.

Israel has launched a ground and air assault on the city of Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, the charity Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) has said.