Israeli media have reported that the government has approved the mobilization of 50,000 reserve soldiers to support forces operating on the northern border with Lebanon and in the Gaza Strip.
According to Israeli Army Radio, this additional support comes amid the possibility of launching a large-scale military operation in the north against Hezbollah and expanding the ground operation in Rafah.
The new call-up will increase the number of Israeli soldiers in the north from 300,000 to 350,000.
Military correspondent Itay Blumental of the Israel Broadcasting Corporation posted on the social media platform X: “The Israeli army states that the increase in the reserve quota, which will be presented for government approval, is not related to the north (with Lebanon).
The decision to increase the quota by 50,000 is because the activity in Rafah requires more personnel than previously planned.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned from the Kiryat Shmona settlement, “We are prepared for a very strong operation in the north.”
On Tuesday, Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said from the northern front, “We are approaching the point where a decision will have to be made, and the army is very ready and prepared for this decision.”
He added, “We have been attacking Hezbollah for the past eight months, and they are paying a very, very heavy price.”
The escalation in military preparations highlights the growing tensions and the potential for significant conflict in both northern Israel and Gaza.
The Israeli government’s decision underscores its readiness to respond robustly to threats from Hezbollah and other adversaries in the region.
The Group of Seven (G7) leaders strongly supported the comprehensive deal proposed by US President Joe Biden to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
They called on Hamas to accept the deal and urged nations with influence over Hamas to ensure its compliance.
In a statement, the G7 leaders endorsed the deal, which includes an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant increase in humanitarian aid distribution throughout Gaza, and a long-term resolution ensuring both Israel’s security and the safety of Gazan civilians.
