Israel's Military Announces Operation to Take Over Gaza City

Strategic Insights -

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has stated that troops are already operating on the outskirts of Gaza City, amidst growing international criticism of an operation likely to force the displacement of many more Palestinians. The Israeli military announced the first steps of an operation to take over Gaza City on Wednesday, calling up tens of thousands of reservists while the government considers a new ceasefire proposal to pause nearly two years of war. Israel's military spokesman, Brigadier-General Effie Defrin, said troops would deepen the attack on Hamas in Gaza City, a stronghold of governmental and military terror for the terrorist organization. The operation comes as negotiators scramble to get Israel and Hamas to agree to end their 22 months of fighting.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 62,000 people have been killed during Israel's 22-month offensive in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, with women and children making up around half of them.
  • The Israeli military has announced plans to call up 60,000 reservists and extend the service of 20,000 others who are currently serving, in a move that carries significant economic and political weight for a country of fewer than 10 million people.
  • The operation aims to take control of Hamas strongholds, including Gaza City, where troops will target the militant group's underground tunnel network and degrade their ability to launch attacks.
  • The Israeli government has been accused of perpetuating the war for political reasons, while also failing to bring home the 50 remaining hostages, 20 of whom are believed to be alive.
  • Hamas-led militants started the war when they attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting 251 hostages.
  • Arab mediators and Hamas have announced a proposed ceasefire agreement, although similar announcements in the past have not led to a lasting truce.

Sources:

  • The Associated Press, "Israel: 10,000s of reservists called up for Gaza operation"
  • The Jerusalem Post, "Israel's military kills Hamas militant who stormed kibbutz and abducted father of three"
  • The Gaza Health Ministry, "More than 62,000 people killed during Israel's 22-month offensive in Gaza"
  • Reuters, "Israel approves controversial settlement project in occupied West Bank"