**WHO Calls for Protection as Israeli Ground Offensive Compromises Gaza Operations**
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep concern over the Israeli ground offensive in central Gaza, which has compromised its efforts to continue working in the region. The UN agency’s facilities came under attack on Monday, with its staff and their families being exposed to grave danger.
According to the WHO, Israeli forces attacked a building housing its staff and their families in Deir al-Balah, causing significant damage and traumatizing those sheltering there. The organization’s main warehouse was also destroyed, forcing it to relocate its staff and families to a safer location.
The Israeli military has not yet commented on the attacks, but the WHO is calling for immediate protection of its staff and facilities. “We condemn in the strongest terms these attacks on our facilities,” said a spokesperson for the WHO. “Our staff and their families have been exposed to grave danger, and we demand the immediate release of one of our detained staff members.”
**Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Hundreds of Thousands Displaced**
The Israeli ground offensive has displaced tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians in Deir al-Balah, amid warnings of a severe hunger crisis across the territory. The UN is reporting cases of malnourished people arriving at clinics and hospitals, with 19 people having died from malnutrition since Saturday.
The Hamas-run health ministry has also reported a significant increase in the number of people suffering from malnutrition, with many more at risk due to the collapse of essential services. “The situation on the ground is dire,” said a spokesperson for the UN. “We are doing everything we can to support those affected, but it’s clear that much more needs to be done to address this humanitarian crisis.”
**Israeli Military Says Ground Offensive Aimed at Destroying Hamas Capabilities**
The Israeli military has stated that its ground offensive in Deir al-Balah is aimed at destroying Hamas capabilities and terrorist infrastructure. The operation has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people, with many more feared to be trapped.
The UN is urging Israel to take steps to protect civilians and prevent further suffering. “We are deeply concerned about the humanitarian implications of this ground offensive,” said a spokesperson for the UN. “We urge Israel to take all necessary measures to protect civilians and ensure that they have access to essential services, including healthcare.”
**Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Shows No Signs of Abating**
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has been ongoing for months, with many more people at risk due to the collapse of essential services. The WHO’s main warehouse was looted by desperate crowds after being attacked, highlighting the desperation and poverty that exists on the ground.
“The situation on the ground is catastrophic,” said a spokesperson for the UN. “We are doing everything we can to support those affected, but it’s clear that much more needs to be done to address this humanitarian crisis.”
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