Israel Calls Up 50,000 Reservists Ahead of Gaza City Offensive: What You Need to Know

Israel is preparing for a major new phase in its planned military offensive against Hamas by calling up 50,000 reservists, in a bid to take control of Gaza City, the largest urban area in the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian militant group’s main stronghold, according to a Reuters report published Wednesday.

The Military Build-Up

An Israeli military official told the news agency on condition of anonymity that most of the troops reported to be deployed in the new stage of operation will be “active duty soldiers, and not reservists”.

The reservists that have been called up will likely support Israel’s air force, intelligence, and other roles, the official further revealed while adding that they could also replace active troops stationed outside Gaza. The call-up notices could go out soon, with reservists expected to be reporting for duty in September.

The Israeli military iis planning to expand operations in parts of Gaza City where Israeli forces have not yet been active, especially focussing on neighborhoods like Zeitoun and Jabaliya. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led governement, for its part, has said that Israel’s main objective is to dismantle Hamas’ extensive underground tunnel network.

Timing and Scale

While the exact start date of the operation remains unclear, the mobilisation of 50,000 reservists is one of the largest in recent months. Israel’s defense minister has reportedly approved the plan, with the chief of staff expected to give final approval soon.

Netanyahu has repeatedly stressed that his government aims to secure the release of hostages and prevent Hamas from ever threatening Israel again.

Concerns from Families and Former Officials

The announcement has raised concern among hostage families and former military leaders, many of whom doubt the feasibility and timing of the offensive.

Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen called the goal of destroying Hamas a “fantasy,” telling the Associated Press that “if anyone imagines that we can reach every terrorist and every pit and every weapon, and in parallel bring our hostages home – I think it is impossible.”

Families of hostages have voiced their desire for an immediate ceasefire, fearing the offensive could endanger the remaining 50 hostages believed to still be held in Gaza.

Ceasefire Talks Underway

Mediation efforts are underway in Cairo, with Hamas reportedly agreeing to ceasefire terms. Israel, for its part, has said that it’s in contact with mediators focussed on securing hostage releases, with a decision expected by the end of this week.

Meanwhile, Gaza is facing a deepening humanitarian crisis with over 62,000 people killed during the 22-month conflict, including many women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Malnutrition-related deaths are also rising, with 154 adults and 112 children reported dead since late June.

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