Israel Calls Up 60,000 Reservists for Expanded Gaza Operation

Israel’s military announced on Wednesday that it will mobilize tens of thousands of reservists and extend the service of others for an expanded operation in Gaza City. This decision, approved by Defense Minister Israel Katz, initiates a new phase of military actions aimed at addressing areas of high Hamas activity within some of Gaza’s most densely populated neighborhoods.

The plan includes calling up approximately 60,000 reservists while extending the service of an additional 20,000 troops currently engaged. This significant mobilization comes in a country with a population of under 10 million, highlighting both its economic and political implications. The announcement follows recent mass protests demanding a ceasefire, reflecting a growing divide in public sentiment regarding the ongoing conflict.

As international negotiators attempt to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, there are concerns that an increased military presence could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Reports indicate that the majority of Gaza’s residents are displaced, with many neighborhoods in ruins and communities facing the threat of famine. A military official, who requested anonymity in accordance with military protocol, noted that Israeli forces will target areas in Gaza City where they believe Hamas remains active, specifically focusing on the militant group’s extensive underground tunnel network.

Gaza City serves as both Hamas’ military headquarters and a refuge for hundreds of thousands of civilians. The military’s operations are expected to begin within days, marking one of the largest reservist mobilizations in recent months. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that the primary goal of the military campaign is to secure the safe return of hostages and ensure that Hamas can no longer pose a threat to Israel.

The planned escalation comes amid rising international criticism of Israel’s restrictions on essential supplies reaching Gaza. Observers note that many residents are hesitant to flee southward, fearing that no location is truly safe from airstrikes. Ahmed Alhendawi, regional director of Save the Children, described the situation in Gaza as “apocalyptic,” emphasizing the dire conditions faced by children and families in the region.

As discontent grows among reservists, many express frustration over the government’s handling of the war. A growing number of former military personnel and families of hostages are voicing opposition to the expanded operations. They argue that the government is prolonging the conflict for political motives while failing to prioritize the safe return of the approximately 50 hostages still believed to be held by Hamas. Reports suggest that around 20 hostages are thought to be alive.

In addition to the military developments, Egyptian and Qatari mediators have indicated they are awaiting Israel’s response to ceasefire proposals accepted by Hamas. Egyptian Foreign Minister Bader Abdelattay remarked, “The ball is now in Israel’s court,” highlighting the urgency of the situation. Netanyahu has consistently stated that he will not agree to any deal that fails to ensure the complete defeat of Hamas.

The toll of the ongoing conflict has been devastating, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting that more than 62,122 people have died during the 22-month offensive, a figure that includes a significant number of women and children. Since June, malnutrition-related deaths have also been recorded, with 154 adults and 112 children reported to have succumbed to related causes.

In a separate but related development, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has stirred controversy by sharing footage of Gaza’s destruction with Palestinian inmates in an Israeli prison. His actions have sparked further outrage and concern regarding the government’s approach to the conflict. This comes on the heels of a contentious settlement project in the occupied West Bank that has drawn criticism for threatening the viability of a future Palestinian state.

On the ground, the Israeli military reported the killing of a Hamas militant involved in the abduction of Yarden Bibas, whose family has become emblematic of the hostage crisis. The Bibas family case has drawn significant media attention, and Yarden has described the death of his alleged kidnapper as a step towards closure, while he continues to await the return of those still held captive.

As the situation in Gaza remains fluid, the international community watches closely for developments, particularly regarding the humanitarian implications of the expanded military operation and the potential for a ceasefire.