Israel has announced plans to mobilize 60,000 reservists as it prepares for a new military phase in Gaza City. The decision, approved by Defense Minister Israel Katz, marks one of the largest call-ups in recent months and signals a major escalation in the conflict.

The military said reservists will be sent notices within days, with reporting expected in September. In addition, around 20,000 current reservists already serving will have their duty extended to support the operation. Officials confirmed that final approval from the army's chief of staff is expected soon.

Gaza City remains Hamas' political and military stronghold, as well as one of the last major areas under its control in the north of the Strip. Israeli troops are expected to focus on clearing neighborhoods such as Jabalia and Zeitoun, while also targeting Hamas' vast underground tunnel network.

The upcoming assault comes at a time of severe humanitarian crisis. According to Gaza's health ministry, at least 62,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, have been killed since the war began nearly two years ago. Rights groups and the United Nations have warned that further attacks could deepen the suffering of civilians already facing shortages of food, clean water, and medicine.

Despite the looming offensive, hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens have recently rallied in favor of a ceasefire. Mediators continue to push both Israel and Hamas toward an agreement, though progress remains slow.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel's war goals are clear: to dismantle Hamas, free the remaining hostages, and prevent future threats to Israeli security.

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