Israel has announced the mobilization of thousands of reserve soldiers to strengthen its campaign against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, signaling a possible expansion of military operations within the Palestinian territory.
This escalation has heightened concerns in Gaza, where a blockade has prevented the entry of food, medicine, and essential humanitarian supplies for over two months. Many residents continue to endure severe hardship, living amid destruction and displacement caused by prolonged conflict and scarcity.
The Israeli security cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is scheduled to convene to approve plans for broadening the offensive in Gaza, according to officials familiar with the situation who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
Following the end of a two-month cease-fire in mid-March, Israeli forces have resumed airstrikes across Gaza. However, while aerial bombardments by jets and drones have been frequent, ground troop advances have decelerated after initial territorial gains.
The recent call-up of reservists suggests a strategic shift aimed at pressuring Hamas to meet Israeli conditions for ending the conflict. Earlier phases of the war saw Israeli forces conducting extensive operations that devastated large parts of Gaza’s urban areas, resulting in widespread displacement.
According to Gaza health authorities, more than 50,000 people have died amid the ongoing military campaign. These figures encompass both combatants and civilians, including thousands of children.
