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Israel has announced the mobilization of 60,000 reservists as it prepares for a major ground assault aimed at seizing Gaza City, escalating a conflict that has already displaced millions and left tens of thousands dead.
A senior Israeli military official confirmed that the reservists will begin reporting for duty in September, supplementing active-duty forces already operating in Gaza's Zeitoun and Jabalia districts. Defence Minister Israel Katz approved the operational plan on Tuesday, which will be submitted to the security cabinet for final approval later this week.
The planned offensive would involve five divisions in what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described as the next phase of Operation Gideon's Chariots. In addition to the new mobilisation, the military has extended the service of 20,000 reservists already deployed.
Officials said the operation will be "gradual and precise," targeting militant infrastructure above and below ground. The IDF has already resumed attacks in the Jabalia area, claiming to have dismantled tunnels and eliminated fighters.
Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza City are expected to be ordered to evacuate southward. Humanitarian groups and UN agencies warned that the forced displacement would exacerbate an already catastrophic situation. Southern Gaza, they noted, is overcrowded, with hospitals overwhelmed and food shortages worsening.
"The Israeli plan to intensify operations in Gaza City will have a horrific humanitarian impact," aid agencies said in a joint statement, describing the situation as "unsustainable and life-threatening."
Regional mediators, led by Egypt and Qatar with US backing, are scrambling to secure a ceasefire before the assault begins. Their latest proposal calls for a 60-day truce, expanded humanitarian access, and the release of about half of the 50 hostages believed to be held in Gaza. Hamas said it accepted the terms on Monday, but Israel has yet to respond formally. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that only a comprehensive deal securing the release of all hostages would be acceptable.
