Is the Israeli Army Expanding Its Offensive in Gaza?
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Synopsis
In a significant escalation, Israel's military has initiated a massive call-up of reservists to ramp up its operations in the Gaza Strip. With a focus on pressuring Hamas, the move aims to secure the release of hostages amid ongoing conflict. The situation remains tense as the region faces unprecedented challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Israel's military has issued a massive call-up of reservists.
- The goal is to intensify operations in the Gaza Strip.
- Pressure is on Hamas to release hostages.
- Over 100 targets struck in recent military actions.
- Public sentiment is divided, with calls for a ceasefire.
Jerusalem, May 5 (NationPress) Israel's military has commenced issuing “tens of thousands” of call-up orders for reservists aimed at intensifying its operations in the Gaza Strip, according to a senior defense official, who pledged to increase pressure on Hamas to secure the release of hostages.
Eyal Zamir, the Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, made this announcement during a visit to a naval commando base on Sunday, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
“This week we are issuing tens of thousands of call-up orders to our reservists to intensify and expand our operations in Gaza,” Zamir stated. “We are increasing pressure in order to bring our hostages home and to defeat Hamas.”
He emphasized that as part of the expanded offensive, the military would operate “in additional areas” within the enclave and eliminate “all militant infrastructure.”
Zamir noted that the reservists would also be deployed to various regions, including the northern border adjacent to Lebanon and Syria, and the occupied West Bank.
This announcement follows a weekend during which Israeli forces targeted over 100 sites across the Gaza Strip, focusing on militant cells, underground facilities, and military compounds, as stated by the army.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his coalition partners have pledged to continue the conflict until Hamas is defeated, despite increasing public pressure in Israel for a ceasefire agreement that could facilitate the release of 59 hostages believed to be held in Gaza.
Israel concluded a two-month ceasefire with Hamas in March and resumed its air and ground operations. According to health authorities in Gaza, over 52,000 Palestinians have lost their lives since the Israeli offensive began in October 2023.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the complexities of the situation. The Israeli military's decision to call up reservists reflects a commitment to national security while simultaneously facing immense humanitarian concerns. The ongoing conflict poses significant challenges that require careful navigation to ensure stability in the region.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Israeli military to call up reservists?
The call-up was initiated to intensify operations in the Gaza Strip and apply pressure on Hamas for the release of hostages.
How many reservists have been called up?
The Israeli military has issued tens of thousands of call-up orders for reservists.
What areas will the reservists be deployed to?
Reservists will be deployed in the Gaza Strip and additional areas, including the northern border near Lebanon and Syria, and the occupied West Bank.
What has been the impact of the ongoing conflict?
The health authorities in Gaza report over 52,000 fatalities since the Israeli offensive began in October 2023.
Is there any public pressure for a ceasefire?
Yes, there is growing public pressure in Israel for a ceasefire to secure the release of hostages.
