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13h ago

Israel Begins First Phase to Seize Gaza City, Calls Up 60,000 Reservists

Israel is weighing a 60-day truce offer reported accepted by Hamas.

A picture taken on August 18, 2025, shows tents housing displaced Palestinians in Gaza City.
GAZA BORDER, ISRAEL - AUGUST 18: IDF soldiers prepare tanks on August 18, 2025 near the Gaza Strip's northern borders, Israel. On Monday it was reported that Hamas has agreed to the most recent ceasefire and hostage release proposal with Israel. Meanwhile, Israel has continued carrying out strikes in Gaza as part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to expand the IDF offensive to fully occupy the enclave. The move has been met with widespread condemnation by the international community, as well as hostage families, who say the operation will further endanger the 20 or hostages still believed to be held alive by Hamas in Gaza, as well as one million Palestinians in Gaza City, who are already facing displacement and an acute hunger crisis. (Photo by Elke Scholiers/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • An IDF spokesman said preliminary operations are underway and forces are holding positions on Gaza City’s outskirts.
  • The defense minister approved a new phase that includes calling up 60,000 reservists and extending 20,000 current terms, with reporting set for September pending the chief of staff’s final sign-off and a timeline that could be accelerated.
  • Advance units are operating in Zeitoun and Jabaliya to prepare a broader push targeting Hamas’ tunnel network and remaining command structures in areas not previously entered.
  • United Nations agencies and humanitarian groups warn a larger assault could trigger mass displacement, worsen hunger, and overwhelm southern hospitals, while Israel says civilians will be directed to leave battle zones.
  • Domestic pushback is intensifying with large protests and hostage families opposing an expanded assault; officials estimate about 50 hostages remain in Gaza, roughly 20 believed alive.