Thousands of Israeli reservists have reported for duty as the Israeli military escalates its offensive operations aimed at capturing Gaza City. Ground forces have begun advancing into the outskirts of this significant urban area, which officials identify as a Hamas stronghold. The city is undergoing intense aerial and artillery bombardment, with local hospitals reporting at least 95 fatalities among Palestinians since midnight.
The military has instructed residents to evacuate towards the south, and the United Nations estimates that around 20,000 individuals have complied over the past two weeks, leaving nearly one million still within the area. UN humanitarian officials have raised alarms about the potential consequences of a full-scale offensive, labeling it as potentially devastating for the entire Gaza Strip.
In preparation for “Operation Gideon’s Chariots II,” the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) previously announced plans to call up approximately 60,000 reservists, granting extended service to 20,000 who had already been mobilized. An Israeli military official confirmed that thousands have begun reporting, with many being dispatched to the West Bank to allow active-duty troops to focus on the offensive.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared Israel’s intent to control all of Gaza following failed ceasefire negotiations with Hamas in July. The IDF’s objectives include defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages, with reports indicating that 48 individuals remain in captivity.
Families of the hostages have expressed fears that the renewed offensive might jeopardize their loved ones’ safety and have urged the prime minister to negotiate an agreement for their release. The IDF Chief of Staff suggested agreeing to a proposal from regional mediators for a temporary truce, but Netanyahu insists on a comprehensive deal.
As the situation unfolds, hospital officials in Gaza report overcrowded facilities and severe shortages of supplies, with medical staff warning of deteriorating conditions. Food security experts indicate that a famine is developing in Gaza City, with predictions of its expansion into nearby regions by the month’s end.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cyvnv5lv4zpo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss