Israel has ordered the call-up of 60,000 new reservists, while extending the service of another 20,000 soldiers already on duty.
The announcement came after what the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) described as an “in-depth discussion” on manpower requirements to continue its campaign in Gaza.
Officials claim the reinforcements are essential to maintain military pressure and prepare for a full-scale assault on Gaza City.
Renewed Strikes Devastate Gaza
In northern Gaza, Israeli forces have resumed heavy air and ground strikes on Jabalia and neighborhoods surrounding Gaza City.
Witnesses reported entire districts reduced to rubble as homes, schools, and residential blocks were destroyed. Families have been forced to flee yet again, with many describing the bombardments as turning once-thriving communities into “wastelands.”
The strikes come as part of Israel’s broader military plan to encircle Gaza City and push civilians southward, despite widespread warnings of catastrophic humanitarian consequences.
Families of Hostages Speak Out
Inside Israel, the mobilization has fueled domestic anger. Relatives of hostages still held in Gaza criticized the Defense Ministry’s approval of the plan to storm the city.
They accused the government of rejecting a ceasefire proposal that could have freed their loved ones, calling the decision “a stab in the heart.”
Families argued that prolonging the war only increases the danger facing hostages, while leaving civilians in Gaza to endure further destruction.
Ceasefire Proposal on the Table
On Monday, Hamas confirmed that it had accepted a ceasefire plan mediated by Qatar and Egypt. The proposal includes a 60-day truce and the release of half of the 50 remaining Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Despite this, Israel has shown little sign of halting its offensive, raising fears of a prolonged conflict.
Civilian Deaths Continue to Mount
Meanwhile, the toll on civilians inside Gaza grows daily. Medical sources confirmed that at least 35 Palestinians were killed since dawn, including 10 people shot while searching for aid in central and southern Gaza.
With no safe zones remaining, thousands continue to flee southward. Yet, humanitarian groups warn that nowhere in the enclave offers true security from bombardment.
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