Tens of thousands of Israeli reservists face call-up orders for an expanded military offensive, with some expressing the sentiment "We are dying for no reason" as the nearly two-year Gaza conflict divides their nation. The Israel Defense Forces began mobilising 60,000 reservists on Tuesday for operations in Gaza City, one of the few areas in the devastated territory still outside Israeli control.
More reservists will be ordered to report to military bases if fighting continues for many months, as military analysts expect. Those called up in the coming days will be forced to make their decision quickly about reporting for active service.
Reservist doubts emerge
The call-up has sparked intense debate among reservists, reflecting wider national divisions over the Gaza war. Soldiers are expressing doubts about serving in Gaza, though few will refuse to fight when ordered to report for duty.
The reservist sentiment captures the broader internal tensions within Israeli society about the prolonged conflict. Despite their concerns, military officials expect most called-up reservists to comply with orders when required to serve.
Gaza City operations intensify
The expanded offensive specifically targets Gaza City, focusing on the Zeitoun and Shijaiyah districts in western Gaza City according to the Morning Star. These neighbourhoods have been repeatedly invaded during the nearly two-year conflict but remain strategically important to Israeli military objectives.
At least 47 Palestinians have been killed in the current operations as the mobilisation begins, the Morning Star reports. The casualty figures come as Israeli forces intensify their presence in areas they consider crucial for establishing complete control over Gaza.
The reservist call-up represents one of the largest mobilisations since the conflict began, highlighting the ongoing strategic importance military leadership places on securing Gaza City. The mobilisation occurs amid growing questions about the war's duration and objectives among those being asked to serve.
Sources used: "The Guardian", "Independent", "Morning Star" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
