Palestinians rush to collect humanitarian aid airdropped by parachutes into Gaza City, northern Gaza Strip, Aug. 7, 2025.
Israel is preparing for a major military escalation in Gaza City. The Israeli military announced Wednesday that 60,000 reservists will be called up for an expanded offensive. The move marks one of the largest mobilizations in recent months, adding to the tension surrounding the ongoing war.
Many Gazans remain trapped in dire conditions. Shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies have left residents with few options. Despite the risks, many fear that fleeing offers no real safety.
New Phase of Military Operations in Gaza
Defense Minister Israel Katz approved the mobilization plan, which now awaits final confirmation from the army’s chief of staff. Alongside fresh call-ups, the service of 20,000 reservists already on active duty will be extended.
Officials said the upcoming operation would target areas of Gaza City where Israeli forces have yet to deploy. The focus will be on Hamas strongholds and the group’s vast underground tunnel network. Troops are already preparing in neighborhoods such as Zeitoun and Jabaliya, setting the stage for the assault.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered military leaders to accelerate the timeline. The push into Gaza City is expected to begin within days.
Gaza City: Hamas Stronghold and Refuge for Thousands
Gaza City remains Hamas’ governing and military hub. It is also one of the last shelters for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians in the north.
While Israel claims Hamas leadership has been severely weakened, fighters continue regrouping. Rocket fire into Israel has not stopped. Netanyahu insists the war’s goals remain unchanged: secure the release of hostages and eliminate Hamas’ ability to threaten Israel.
Rising Global Pressure and Humanitarian Crisis
The planned offensive comes as global criticism intensifies over Israel’s blockade on food and medicine reaching Gaza. Aid agencies warn of famine. Nearly 2 million residents have been displaced since the war began, and much of the territory lies in ruins.
United Nations officials fear another wave of mass displacement. “People are being uprooted repeatedly with no safe place left,” UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.
Aid groups describe the situation as catastrophic. “The reality for children and families in Gaza is nothing short of apocalyptic,” said Ahmed Alhendawi of Save the Children.
Dissent Among Reservists and Families of Hostages
Not all Israelis support the expanded military campaign. Exhausted reservists and families of hostages are voicing frustration. Many accuse the government of prolonging the war for political motives rather than focusing on securing the safe return of the remaining 50 hostages.
Some ex-military leaders have joined calls for an immediate ceasefire. Families fear that an expanded assault could endanger hostages still alive inside Gaza.
“There is fatigue, frustration, and resentment among reservists,” said retired air force pilot Guy Poran. He added that even those supportive of the war are unwilling to serve again due to family and work pressures.
Ultra-Orthodox Jews block a highway during a protest against army recruitment, in Bnei Brak, Israel, Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025.
Ceasefire Talks Continue, but No Breakthrough
Hamas launched the conflict on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 Israelis and taking 251 hostages. While many were freed during previous ceasefires, Hamas insists the remaining hostages will only be released in exchange for a permanent truce and Israeli withdrawal.
Egypt and Qatar have been mediating. This week, Hamas reportedly agreed to a 60-day ceasefire proposal. However, Israel has not accepted the terms. Netanyahu has made it clear he rejects any deal that does not ensure Hamas’ total defeat.
Death Toll and Humanitarian Toll Mount
The humanitarian cost continues to climb. On Wednesday, at least 27 Palestinians were killed near the Zikim crossing when crowds gathered for aid. Health officials said most victims were shot by Israeli troops, while others were crushed in a stampede.
Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 62,000 deaths since the conflict began. Women and children make up about half of the casualties. Malnutrition has added another tragic layer, with over 250 deaths linked to hunger since June.
Outlook: Escalation Amid Growing Condemnation
Israel’s decision to mobilize 60,000 reservists signals a dramatic escalation in Gaza City. The move deepens global concerns about mass displacement, famine, and the fate of hostages.
With international pressure rising and negotiations stalled, the conflict shows no signs of easing. Gaza’s humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, leaving civilians in a desperate struggle for survival.
