Countdown to Gaza: Israel’s Invasion Looms Any Moment
Thousands of reservists were called up as the IDF surrounds Gaza City, urging civilians to evacuate south. A senior security official warns: “Time is limited — we are pushing for decisive victory, not running from a painful mission.”
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The noose around Gaza City is tightening. On Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces continued for what is expected to be a ground entry.
The evacuation itself presents a challenge: moving tens of thousands southward while ensuring food and medical assistance. The IDF has begun setting up new aid stations in southern Gaza, distributing supplies and offering treatment.
Yet commanders emphasize the coming assault will not be swift. “This will be powerful, but not fast,” military officials said, a deliberate choice to reduce risk to the hostages believed to be inside Gaza City.
“We are pushing for a decisive outcome, not fleeing a painful mission,” a senior security official told reporters. “The only fear is that this war shifts in perception from a war of necessity to a war of choice.”
Behind closed doors, efforts to secure a hostage deal remain ongoing, though their progress is unclear. Sources close to Prime Minister Netanyahu admitted: “We are trying to avoid all-out war, but the Americans are telling us, take the opportunity to destroy Hamas. Still, we know our time is limited.”
Earlier, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir visited reservists at the Nachshonim base, rallying troops. “We are defeating the enemy,” he declared. “We act across the Middle East, striking them everywhere, without pause. Hamas will have no safe haven, we will find them and eliminate them, senior and junior alike.”
Meanwhile, families of hostages staged protests outside government offices, demanding an immediate deal. “Our government closes its eyes and ears,” they shouted, as the war moved one step closer to the heart of Gaza.