Israel to mobilise 60,000 reservists ahead of Gaza City operation

Israel is preparing to launch an expanded military operation in Gaza City, saying it will call up 60,000 reservists as negotiators scramble to strike a ceasefire to end 22 months of fighting between Israel and Hamas.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday that the Defence Minister Israel Katz has approved plans to begin a new phase of operations in one of Gaza's most densely populated areas, and that it would also lengthen the service of an additional 20,000 reservists currently part of its forces.

It comes as human rights groups warn that a humanitarian crisis could worsen in the Strip, where most residents have been displaced, vast neighbourhoods lie in ruins and communities are facing the threat of famine.

An Israeli army official, speaking on the condition of anonymity in line with military regulations, said that forces will be stationed in parts of Gaza City where the IDF has not yet operated and where it believes Hamas is still active.

The official said that Israeli troops are already operating in the Zeitoun and Jabaliya neighbourhoods of Gaza City to prepare the groundwork for the expanded operation, which is expected to receive approval from the chief of staff in the coming days.