The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have called up about 60,000 reservists in preparation for a major offensive to capture and occupy Gaza City. Military officials indicated that these reservists are expected to report for duty by September, with a significant number being active-duty personnel. The offensive plan, approved by Defense Minister Israel Katz, will be discussed with the security cabinet later this week. Ongoing operations are reported in the Zeitoun and Jabalia regions to facilitate the upcoming offensive, which officials describe as "gradual" and "precise."
In anticipation of the ground operation, hundreds of thousands of Palestinian residents of Gaza City are expected to evacuate to shelters in southern Gaza. This initiative has drawn criticism from many of Israel's allies, and both the UN and humanitarian organizations have raised alarms about the potential for a "horrific humanitarian impact" following 22 months of ongoing war. After indirect talks between Israel and Hamas regarding a ceasefire and hostage release recently collapsed, Israel's government announced intentions to take full control of the Gaza Strip.
Regional mediators are actively seeking a comprehensive agreement to avert the offensive, proposing a 60-day truce and the release of around half of the 50 hostages held by Hamas. However, Israeli officials have stated that they will not accept a partial deal, demanding the unconditional release of all hostages, with current estimates suggesting that only 20 are believed to be alive.
The IDF stated the directive to mobilize the 60,000 reservists was issued on Wednesday as part of "Operation Gideon's Chariots.” Among these are 20,000 reservists whose service is being extended. Senior military commanders anticipate finalizing operational details within the coming days, with five divisions expected to participate in the offensive.
Minister Katz has indicated that the military's goals include not only the rescue of all hostages but also the thorough incapacitation of Hamas’ operational abilities. As Israeli forces resume activities in northern Gaza and near Gaza City, residents are being advised to relocate south to reduce risks amidst escalating violence.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with reports of 21 casualties in a single day due to Israeli airstrikes. The backdrop of ongoing violence and destruction has prompted warnings from various agencies about the immense suffering that a renewed military incursion could inflict. Human rights organizations are particularly concerned that the forced movement of residents could lead to deeper humanitarian crises, with southern areas already overwhelmed and unable to cope with additional displaced populations.
Since the onset of the conflict in October 2023—escalated by the surprise attack from Hamas that left about 1,200 Israelis dead—Gaza has witnessed devastating losses, with the Hamas-run health ministry citing over 62,122 casualties among the Palestinian population, many already facing displacement and dire living conditions.
As the situation unfolds, Israel's military operations and ongoing humanitarian crisis remain critical focus points for both domestic and international observers.
In anticipation of the ground operation, hundreds of thousands of Palestinian residents of Gaza City are expected to evacuate to shelters in southern Gaza. This initiative has drawn criticism from many of Israel's allies, and both the UN and humanitarian organizations have raised alarms about the potential for a "horrific humanitarian impact" following 22 months of ongoing war. After indirect talks between Israel and Hamas regarding a ceasefire and hostage release recently collapsed, Israel's government announced intentions to take full control of the Gaza Strip.
Regional mediators are actively seeking a comprehensive agreement to avert the offensive, proposing a 60-day truce and the release of around half of the 50 hostages held by Hamas. However, Israeli officials have stated that they will not accept a partial deal, demanding the unconditional release of all hostages, with current estimates suggesting that only 20 are believed to be alive.
The IDF stated the directive to mobilize the 60,000 reservists was issued on Wednesday as part of "Operation Gideon's Chariots.” Among these are 20,000 reservists whose service is being extended. Senior military commanders anticipate finalizing operational details within the coming days, with five divisions expected to participate in the offensive.
Minister Katz has indicated that the military's goals include not only the rescue of all hostages but also the thorough incapacitation of Hamas’ operational abilities. As Israeli forces resume activities in northern Gaza and near Gaza City, residents are being advised to relocate south to reduce risks amidst escalating violence.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with reports of 21 casualties in a single day due to Israeli airstrikes. The backdrop of ongoing violence and destruction has prompted warnings from various agencies about the immense suffering that a renewed military incursion could inflict. Human rights organizations are particularly concerned that the forced movement of residents could lead to deeper humanitarian crises, with southern areas already overwhelmed and unable to cope with additional displaced populations.
Since the onset of the conflict in October 2023—escalated by the surprise attack from Hamas that left about 1,200 Israelis dead—Gaza has witnessed devastating losses, with the Hamas-run health ministry citing over 62,122 casualties among the Palestinian population, many already facing displacement and dire living conditions.
As the situation unfolds, Israel's military operations and ongoing humanitarian crisis remain critical focus points for both domestic and international observers.
