Wed Mar 19 17:05:28 UTC 2025: ## Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Gaza, Killing UN Worker

**Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip –** Israel launched a renewed ground offensive in northern Gaza on March 19, 2025, escalating the conflict after a two-month ceasefire collapsed. The operation, described as “limited” by Israeli officials, aims to recapture the Netzarim corridor. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of intensified attacks and further evacuations of civilians unless dozens of hostages held by Hamas for over 17 months are released.

The escalation comes after a series of intense Israeli airstrikes beginning March 18th, resulting in at least 436 Palestinian deaths, including 183 children and 94 women, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Hundreds more have been injured. Israel maintains it targets only militants but acknowledges civilian casualties due to Hamas operating in densely populated areas.

The renewed fighting tragically claimed the life of a United Nations worker and injured five others in a strike on a UN guesthouse in Deir al-Balah. UNOPS head Jorge Moreira da Silva confirmed the attack, stating that Israel was aware of the UN presence at the location prior to the strikes. The Israeli military denied targeting the UN compound directly, but acknowledged strikes near the compound on Monday and Tuesday.

While no Palestinian rocket fire has been reported since the resumption of Israeli attacks, the situation remains extremely volatile. The renewed conflict threatens to unravel the January ceasefire agreement, which involved a prisoner exchange and was intended to lead to a lasting peace. Negotiations for a ceasefire extension have broken down, with Hamas demanding a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an end to hostilities, while Israel offers an extension conditional on hostage release but without a commitment to end the war. The UN has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, highlighting the rising death toll among humanitarian workers.

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