Jerusalem, (EFE) – As thousands of Israelis rallied Saturday in Tel Aviv calling for a deal with Hamas to secure the release of 59 hostages, the Israeli military is preparing to send tens of thousands of draft orders to reservists to expand its ground operations in Gaza, military sources confirmed.
According to Haaretz, reservists are expected to report to their units by midweek.
The goal is to rotate in reservists to replace regular troops currently stationed along Israel’s borders with Lebanon, Syria, and the occupied West Bank, allowing those active units to combat operations in Gaza.
When asked by EFE, the Israeli military declined to confirm or comment on the recruitment plans.
However, Army Radio also reported that tens of thousands of troops are expected to deploy to Gaza, with the intent of increasing military pressure on Hamas and forcibly displacing more civilians within the enclave.
The move comes despite widespread public for a hostage deal with Hamas, even one that would bring the war to an end. Recent polls indicate a majority of Israelis favor an agreement that secures the return of the captives.
Growing discontent is also evident among reservists and former soldiers.
In recent weeks, dozens of open letters have circulated expressing concern that the continued war now primarily serves the political survival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right coalition allies.
On Saturday night, thousands gathered in what is now known as “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv, continuing weekly demonstrations.
Among the crowd were at least three former hostages, calling for a national pause on Independence Day celebrations, marking 77 years since Israel’s founding, until all captives are returned. EFE
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