Israel has initiated a significant mobilization effort, drafting a record-breaking 300,000 reservists, and shifting its strategy to an offensive stance, according to the chief military spokesperson’s announcement on Monday.
Since the unexpected assault on Saturday, Israeli aircraft have relentlessly targeted Gaza, while ground forces have been engaged in efforts to regain control of border villages and towns previously overrun by Palestinian gunmen.
Rear-Admiral Daniel Hagari, the chief military spokesperson, reported that control had been re-established over these communities, but sporadic clashes persisted as some gunmen remained active. He explained in a televised briefing, “We are now carrying out searches in all of the communities and clearing the area.”
Initially, military officials had emphasized securing Israel’s side of the border before contemplating any substantial escalation in Gaza. However, Hagari disclosed that 300,000 reservists had been summoned since Saturday, hinting at preparations for a potential invasion, although such plans had not been officially confirmed. He stated, “We have never drafted so many reservists on such a scale. We are going on the offensive.”
Hagari also confirmed media reports of casualties on Israel’s side of the border, with 700 people killed, including 73 members of the security forces. He added that Israel’s military had successfully neutralized hundreds of Palestinian gunmen.
