By Emeka Blast 
Israel to Mobilize 50,000 Reservists for Major Gaza City Offensive
The Israeli military is set to call up an additional 50,000 reservists in preparation for a significant new phase in its ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza, focusing on an offensive to capture Gaza City, according to a senior military official. The announcement, made on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, signals a potential escalation in the conflict, which has already claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions since October 2023. This mobilization would nearly double the number of reservists currently active, from 60,000 to 110,000, as Israel aims to dismantle remaining Hamas infrastructure in the densely populated urban center.
The official, speaking to Reuters, confirmed that the reservists will be activated over the coming month to support the operation, though no exact timeline for the assault was provided. “We are preparing for a ground operation in Gaza City to eliminate the remaining Hamas battalions,” the official stated, emphasizing that the move is part of Israel’s strategy to achieve “total victory” in the war. The decision follows recent intelligence assessments indicating that Hamas has regrouped in northern Gaza, including Gaza City, after Israeli forces withdrew from the area earlier in 2025.
The call-up comes amid stalled ceasefire talks in Doha, Qatar, where U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari mediators have been unable to bridge gaps between Israel and Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that any deal must include the release of all hostages and the demilitarization of Gaza, demands Hamas has rejected. The offensive, if launched, could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed and 1.9 million displaced, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
International reactions were swift. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed “deep concern,” urging restraint to avoid further civilian casualties. U.S. President Donald Trump, a staunch supporter of Israel, stated on Truth Social, “Israel has the right to defend itself. Hamas must be eliminated.” However, the Biden administration’s former officials, like Antony Blinken, called for a diplomatic resolution. On X, @NaijaGist tweeted, “Israel mobilizing 50K reservists for Gaza City—escalation incoming? #GazaWar,” while @EagleEyeNG posted, “This could change the Middle East forever. Prayers for peace. #IsraelGaza.”
Palestinian officials condemned the plans, with Hamas spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri stating, “This is a declaration of genocide. We will resist with all our might.” The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank echoed calls for international intervention. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, warned of potential violations of international law if civilian areas are targeted.
The mobilization reflects Israel’s shift toward a more aggressive stance after months of targeted operations. With over 1,500 Israeli soldiers killed since the war began, public pressure for a decisive end has mounted. Analysts like Dr. Yossi Mekelberg from Chatham House told The Guardian, “This offensive risks high casualties on both sides but could be Netanyahu’s bid to declare victory.”
