Thousands of Israeli reservists have begun reporting for duty as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) intensify their ground offensive into Gaza City, the enclave’s largest urban area and a stronghold of Hamas.
Israeli forces are advancing on the city’s outskirts while launching heavy aerial and artillery bombardments. Local hospitals reported that more than 50 Palestinians were killed since midnight, underscoring the human toll of the escalating conflict.
The military has issued urgent evacuation orders, urging civilians to head south. According to the UN, around 20,000 residents have fled in recent weeks, but nearly a million remain trapped in the densely populated city.
UN humanitarian officials have warned that a full-scale offensive would be “beyond catastrophic,” threatening not only Gaza City’s civilians but also the entire strip already suffering under nearly two years of war.
The mobilization comes as part of “Operation Gideon’s Chariots II,” launched in May. The IDF says the campaign has already secured control of about 75% of Gaza. Last month, officials announced plans to call up 60,000 reservists while extending the service of 20,000 already mobilized.
On Tuesday, an Israeli military spokesperson confirmed that thousands of reservists were reporting for duty. Israeli media noted that many would be deployed to the occupied West Bank and northern Israel, allowing regular units to focus on Gaza.
However, some combat units have reported lower turnout compared to earlier mobilizations. Reservists who had already served multiple tours during the 22-month war have sought exemptions, citing personal or financial strain.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed the government’s objectives on Sunday, declaring that Israel would fully conquer Gaza following the collapse of indirect ceasefire and hostage-release negotiations with Hamas in July.
“The cabinet has agreed that our goals remain defeating Hamas and bringing our hostages home,” Netanyahu said.
According to Israeli estimates, Hamas is holding 48 hostages, with 20 believed to be alive. Their fate remains a central factor in ongoing Israeli operations and international mediation efforts.
As the battle for Gaza City intensifies, humanitarian organizations continue to warn of devastating consequences for civilians. With hospitals overwhelmed, food and water shortages worsening, and safe zones shrinking, the prospect of further escalation has triggered mounting international concern.
The conflict, now approaching its second year, shows little sign of resolution, with both military objectives and humanitarian crises deepening by the day.