TEL AVIV, ISRAEL — The Israeli military has announced the mobilization of tens of thousands of reservists to expand its ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip. This move comes amidst growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in the enclave and internal debates within Israel regarding the war’s direction.

Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir stated that the mobilization aims to “intensify and expand our action in Gaza,” with the objective of increasing pressure on Hamas to release the remaining Israeli captives and to dismantle the group’s infrastructure. The announcement precedes a security cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the next phase of the military campaign and potential resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Since the conflict’s escalation in October 2023, over 52,000 Palestinians have been killed, and the majority of Gaza’s 2.4 million residents have been displaced at least once. The territory’s infrastructure and healthcare system have been severely compromised. Humanitarian organizations, including the Red Cross, warn that the response in Gaza is nearing “total collapse,” with a looming famine exacerbated by a blockade imposed in March.

While Israeli officials argue that the expanded offensive will pressure Hamas into releasing the 59 remaining captives, critics contend that such actions may further endanger their lives. Previous ceasefire agreements, which facilitated prisoner exchanges, have not yielded additional releases.

The international community continues to express concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis and urges all parties to seek a resolution that prioritizes the protection of civilians and the restoration of essential services in Gaza.

Source; Al Jazeera