Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, has approved the military’s plan to capture Gaza City and has authorised the mobilisation of roughly 60,000 reservists, International media reported quoting the ministry.
When contacted by AFP, a defence ministry spokesperson verified the reports that had appeared in Israeli media.
Katz’s decision increases pressure on Hamas as mediators seeking a ceasefire in the nearly two-year conflict in Gaza await an official Israeli response to their latest proposal.
The statements from Israeli officials came after Hamas accepted a ceasefire proposal that would allow the release of only half of the hostages still held in Gaza. While mediator Qatar expressed cautious optimism over the proposal, a senior Israeli official emphasised that the government remains firm on demanding the release of all hostages as part of any agreement, AFP reported.
A military official told reporters on Wednesday that around 50,000 reservists would be called up, with drafts scheduled to begin in September.
The official added that the primary forces involved in the next phase of the Gaza offensive would be active-duty troops focusing on Gaza City.
The Israeli military also announced it would extend the service of an additional 20,000 reservists currently on duty. Human rights groups have warned that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza could worsen, with most residents displaced, many neighbourhoods destroyed, and communities facing the risk of famine.
Speaking to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity, a military official said operations will focus on parts of Gaza City where Israeli forces have not yet conducted missions and where Hamas remains active. Israeli troops are already operating in the Zeitoun and Jabaliya districts to prepare for the expanded offensive, which is expected to receive approval from the chief of staff in the coming days.
Gaza City, Hamas’s main military and administrative stronghold, will be targeted, including its extensive underground tunnel network. Although Israel has eliminated much of Hamas’s senior leadership, some members of the group continue to regroup and launch attacks, including rocket fire toward Israel.
The official added that while the exact start date is uncertain, the operation could begin within days. The upcoming mobilisation of 50,000 reservists represents one of the largest call-ups in recent months.
