Israel launched extensive air raids and a ground operation in Gaza's Deir al-Balah, a key humanitarian hub, despite warnings of widespread starvation. The assault follows Sunday's massacre of at least 85 Palestinians seeking food aid near the border. The UN's World Food Programme reports the majority of those killed were civilians aiming to receive flour from a UN convoy. Israel claims it targeted Hamas, while the UN highlights the devastating impact on already strained humanitarian efforts in a region where 87% is under displacement orders. Doctors report hunger-related deaths, and the WFP describes a dire hunger crisis with one in three people going days without food.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.