The current escalation is part of the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which includes decades of political disputes, territorial control issues, and recurring military engagements. Prior to 2023, the Gaza Strip had been subject to a blockade maintained by Israel and Egypt since 2007, following the assumption of administrative control by Hamas.

On October 7, 2023, Palestinian armed groups launched a large-scale offensive into southern Israel. In response, the Israeli military initiated an extensive military campaign in the Gaza Strip with the stated goals of dismantling Hamas's governance and military structures and securing the release of hostages. Armed conflict between Israeli forces and various Palestinian factions has remained continuous since that date.

The intensity of the military operations, combined with existing geographic and infrastructure constraints, has led to the internal displacement of the majority of Gaza's population. The high population density and widespread damage to civilian infrastructure have caused severe shortages of essential resources, including food, clean water, medical supplies, and adequate housing. These conditions are further complicated by seasonal weather factors.