Defense Minister Katz of Israel gives thumbs-up for strategy to annex Gaza
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have called up an additional 60,000 reservists and extended the service of 20,000 others, marking the next phase of its Gaza operation, "Operation Gideon's Chariot." This move indicates an expanded military campaign, particularly targeting Gaza City, the stronghold of Hamas, the militant group that controls the Gaza Strip [1][2].
The Israeli military aims to operate in new parts of Gaza City, including the Zeitoun and Jabaliya neighborhoods, to confront Hamas forces believed to still be active there and to destroy Hamas' extensive underground tunnel network [1].
However, the intensified operation occurs amid warnings by human rights organizations about worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Widespread displacement, destruction of neighborhoods, and threats of famine are already severe in the region. The expanded offensive is likely to exacerbate the crisis affecting the civilian population [1].
Despite significant Israeli targeting of Hamas leadership, militant factions continue to regroup and launch rocket attacks against Israel [1]. The conflict, which has been ongoing for nearly two years, has resulted in millions of people becoming internal refugees, with over 62,000 people killed on the Palestinian side, according to Hamas [1].
Israel's demands for ending the war include the disarmament of Hamas, the return of all hostages, the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, Israeli security control, and an alternative civilian administration not run by Hamas or the Palestinian Authority [1]. An official Israeli response to the ceasefire proposal is expected by the end of the week [1].
The decision to pursue a new ground offensive in Gaza continues despite a reported positive response from Hamas to a ceasefire proposal. Around 60,000 reservists will be called up for the takeover of Gaza City [2]. The total number of reservists involved, counting those already called and the new call-ups, may reach around 130,000 personnel, indicating the scale and seriousness of the planned operation [2].
The offensive, if carried out, may involve evacuating Gaza City, which is estimated to house around one million people. Plans have been prepared to meet the requirements set by Israel's political leadership [1].
The humanitarian aid will be ensured for the evacuated civilians. Preparations for the reception of civilians from Gaza City are being made at a location further south in the coastal strip [1].
The situation of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip is already catastrophic, and there are fears that the offensive will exacerbate it. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has approved a plan for the takeover of Gaza City [1]. The Security Cabinet is set to meet on Thursday [1].
[1] Haaretz. (2023, March 21). IDF calls up 60,000 reservists for Gaza offensive as Israel prepares to take over Gaza City. Retrieved from https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/gaza/2023-03-21/idf-calls-up-60-000-reservists-for-gaza-offensive-as-israel-prepares-to-take-over-gaza-city/
[2] The Times of Israel. (2023, March 21). IDF calls up 60,000 additional reservists for Gaza operation. Retrieved from https://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-calls-up-60000-additional-reservists-for-gaza-operation/
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