Israel Mobilizes 60,000 Reservists for Gaza Offensive
The Israeli military is calling up approximately 60,000 reservists in planning for a ground offensive aimed at capturing and occupying all of Gaza City. Reservists will report for duty in September, with most troops involved being active-duty personnel.Troops are already operating in Zeitoun and Jabalia as part of preparations, a plan approved by Defense Minister Israel Katz and set to be presented to the security cabinet.
Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza City are expected to evacuate to shelters in southern Gaza. The plan has drawn condemnation from Israel’s allies, and warnings from the UN and NGOs about a “horrific humanitarian impact” following 22 months of conflict.
Israel announced its intention to conquer the entire Gaza Strip after ceasefire/hostage release talks with Hamas broke down. Regional mediators are attempting to secure a 60-day truce and the release of around half of the 50 hostages held in Gaza, a proposal Hamas accepted on Monday. Israel seeks a comprehensive deal for the release of all hostages, though only 20 are believed to be alive.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated the call-up of 60,000 reservists is part of “the next phase of Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” launched in May. An additional 20,000 already-called-up reservists will have their orders extended. Commanders have approved a “gradual” and “precise” operation in and around Gaza City, with five divisions expected to participate.
Defence Minister Katz stated Gaza will “change its face” after the operation, and approved plans to accommodate Gaza City residents in southern Gaza, including the al-Mawasi area, with increased food distribution and field hospitals. Prime Minister Netanyahu aims to secure the release of all hostages and “complete the defeat” of Hamas.
The Givati Brigade has resumed operations in Jabalia and near gaza City, dismantling military infrastructure and eliminating terrorists.Civilians are urged to move south for safety. Gaza’s Hamas-run Civil Defence reports a ”very dangerous and unbearable” situation in Zeitoun and Sabra, with ongoing shelling. 21 people were reported killed across Gaza on Wednesday, and a family of five was killed in the Shati refugee camp according to Wafa.