Israel’s Next War Phase: Tens of Thousands Mobilized for Gaza Takeover
The article details the IDF’s preparations for a major offensive to capture Gaza City, involving extensive reservist mobilization and intensified airstrikes, while carefully addressing the safety of hostages held by Hamas.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are gearing up for a critical phase in their ongoing war with Hamas, mobilizing tens of thousands of reservists for an imminent operation aimed at capturing Gaza City. This escalation, part of "Operation Gideon's Chariots II," involves intensified airstrikes and deepened ground operations in the city’s core, with reservists expected to report within days.
The IDF is navigating a delicate balance, prioritizing the safety of the 48 remaining hostages, 20 believed to be alive, held by Hamas. Operational plans are designed to minimize risks to hostages, with any suspicion of their presence prompting altered tactics, despite the need to pressure Hamas. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir emphasized the military’s proactive stance, stating, “The IDF operates offensively, with initiative and operational superiority across all fronts and at all times. In Gaza, we struck one of Hamas’s senior leaders, Abu Ubaida, yesterday, after eliminating most of Hamas’s leadership, and we’re not done yet. The remaining Hamas leadership abroad is not immune; we will reach them too.”
September 2025 is poised to be a pivotal month, with dual challenges on the horizon. Diplomatically, the United Nations General Assembly in New York may see moves toward unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, potentially isolating Israel. Militarily, the Gaza City offensive carries significant operational and international implications, impacting prospects for a hostage deal and regional stability, particularly in Judea and Samaria. The operation, expected to begin within two weeks of mobilization, could extend into 2026, involving up to 130,000 reservists and five divisions, according to recent reports. The IDF is also preparing for civilian evacuations to southern Gaza, coordinating with international organizations to establish field hospitals and aid distribution centers to mitigate the humanitarian crisis.