Israel is gearing up for a major military escalation in Gaza City, with plans to deploy 60,000 reservists and extend the service of 20,000 more, signaling a new phase in its 22-month war against Hamas. The Israeli military, under approval from the defense minister, aims to target Hamas’ underground tunnel network in densely populated areas like Zeitoun and Jabaliya, where troops are already laying the groundwork, according to a military official speaking anonymously due to regulations. The operation, expected to receive final approval soon, could begin within days, marking one of the largest mobilizations in recent months.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that the offensive seeks to secure the release of approximately 50 remaining hostages—20 believed to be alive—and eliminate Hamas’ ability to threaten Israel. However, the plan, first announced on August 9, has sparked global condemnation and fears of mass displacement among Gaza City’s hundreds of thousands of residents, many of whom are already displaced and living in ruins. AP journalists observed small groups fleeing south, though many Palestinians, wary of airstrikes, say nowhere in Gaza is safe.
The Gaza Health Ministry, run by Hamas but staffed by medical professionals, reports over 62,000 deaths since the war began, with roughly half being women and children. Additionally, 154 adults and 112 children have died from malnutrition-related causes since late June, as Israel’s blockade severely restricts food, water, and medical supplies. Humanitarian groups warn that the new offensive could push Gaza, already on the brink of famine, into a deeper crisis.
Also Read: Israel Sees Nationwide Protests, Families Demand Ceasefire
Critics within Israel, including exhausted reservists and hostage families, are questioning the operation’s goals. A growing reservist movement accuses Netanyahu of prolonging the war for political gain, while former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen called the complete destruction of Hamas a “fantasy,” arguing it risks the hostages’ lives. Families fear the assault could endanger the remaining captives, urging an immediate ceasefire instead.
The war, triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and abducted 251, has seen intermittent ceasefires, with most hostages released through prior deals. Hamas insists on a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal for further releases, while Netanyahu demands Hamas’ total defeat. Mediators in Cairo report Hamas’ agreement to ceasefire terms, but Israel’s response remains unclear, with Netanyahu’s coalition rejecting any deal short of Hamas’ destruction.
As international outcry grows, with warnings from the UN and countries like the UK and Australia about catastrophic consequences, the planned operation threatens to exacerbate Gaza’s humanitarian disaster. The UN estimates 87% of Gaza is under military control or evacuation orders, leaving little refuge for civilians. With negotiations faltering and reservists facing burnout, the conflict’s next phase could reshape Gaza’s future—and Israel’s—at a steep human cost.
Also Read: Israel Plan to Relocate Gaza’s Palestinians