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Israeli defense minister approves Gaza offensive as 60,000 reservists are called up
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has endorsed a military plan to capture Gaza City and has ordered the mobilization of 60,000 reservists to carry out the operation. This decision marks a significant escalation in Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas, which began after the group’s deadly attack on October 7, 2023.
Attack plan and reservist mobilization
The Ministry of Defense confirmed the approval of the Israeli army’s strategy to seize control of Gaza City, a stronghold of Hamas. Katz also authorized the issuance of orders to recall 60,000 reservists to support the mission. The large-scale mobilization underscores the intensity of Israel’s military objectives in the Gaza Strip.
Humanitarian preparations for civilian evacuation
In addition to the military strategy, Katz approved measures aimed at facilitating the evacuation of civilians from Gaza City. These humanitarian preparations are intended to mitigate the impact of the offensive on the local population, though concerns remain about the potential for widespread displacement.
Context and objectives
Israel has been preparing for this operation since early August, with the stated goals of dismantling Hamas’s infrastructure, eliminating its leadership, and securing the release of hostages taken during the October 7 attack. That assault by Hamas left hundreds dead and sparked the current conflict.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced that his security cabinet had approved this new phase of military operations, signaling a unified government approach to the offensive in Gaza.
Regional response
The escalation has drawn sharp criticism from Hamas, which condemned the incursions into Gaza as "aggressive" and warned of a "dangerous escalation." International observers have raised concerns about the humanitarian toll and the broader implications for stability in the region.
