Israel Calls Up 60,000 Reservists Ahead of Gaza City Offensive
Israel has called up 60,000 reservists ahead of a major Gaza City ground offensive, sparking global concern over an escalating humanitarian crisis.
Israeli tanks along the Gaza border as IDF prepares a major ground offensive in Gaza City.
Israel has ordered the mobilisation of 60,000 reservists as it prepares for a large-scale ground offensive to capture and occupy Gaza City. The operation, approved by Defence Minister Israel Katz, is expected to begin in September and involve five divisions of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
According to Israeli officials, most of the troops involved will be active-duty personnel, with reservists supporting ongoing operations in areas such as Zeitoun and Jabalia. The IDF said the mobilization is part of “the next phase of Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” launched in May, which has already seen Israel take control of nearly 75% of Gaza.
Humanitarian Concerns
The planned offensive is expected to trigger mass evacuations, with hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza City likely to be ordered south toward temporary shelters, including the al-Mawasi coastal zone where field hospitals are being set up.
The UN and humanitarian agencies have warned of “catastrophic consequences,” saying that overcrowding, lack of food, water, and medicine could amount to forcible transfer under international law. The World Food Programme has also reported alarming spikes in malnutrition among children and mothers in Gaza.
Global Reactions
French President Emmanuel Macron warned the operation “can only lead to disaster for both peoples” and risks fuelling an endless cycle of war. The International Committee of the Red Cross echoed similar concerns, saying intensified hostilities could push Gaza’s humanitarian crisis beyond recovery and endanger hostages believed to be held in Gaza City.
Meanwhile, mediators Egypt and Qatar are pushing for a new 60-day truce proposal, which Hamas has reportedly accepted. However, Israel has demanded a comprehensive deal ensuring the release of all hostages, with officials insisting they will not settle for a partial agreement.
Since the war began after Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack on southern Israel, at least 62,122 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s health ministry, while 1,200 Israelis lost their lives in the initial assault.
