The Israeli military has begun calling up tens of thousands of reservists in preparation for an expanded offensive in the Gaza Strip, amid growing public discontent over the government’s handling of the conflict and failure to secure the release of hostages. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced plans to escalate operations into new areas of Gaza, targeting what it described as Hamas’ military infrastructure both above and below ground.
This move comes after military officials presented a phased assault plan to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with the Israeli security cabinet reportedly approving the expansion. However, the operation is expected to be delayed until after former US President Donald Trump’s visit next week. With 59 hostages still in Gaza and no releases since March 18, public frustration is rising as protests erupted across Israel, calling for negotiations over military action.
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The renewed campaign will increase the burden on Israel’s reserve forces, many of whom have already faced repeated call-ups. Thousands of reservists have openly urged the government to prioritize a deal for the hostages rather than prolonging the war, which has now stretched into its 19th month without a clear post-war strategy.
Meanwhile, humanitarian conditions in Gaza continue to worsen, with over 52,500 Palestinian deaths reported and aid agencies warning of an escalating crisis. A missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels near Israel’s main airport has further heightened regional tensions, with Netanyahu vowing retaliation.
