Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, continue unabated as fresh airstrikes killed at least 24 Palestinians early Monday, including five children in drone attacks, according to international media. The latest escalation follows the Israeli war cabinet’s approval to widen the scope of ground operations in the besieged Palestinian territory.

According to reports, fresh Israeli bombardment struck Gaza City, Jabalia, and Beit Lahia, causing casualties and extensive destruction. The humanitarian crisis deepened as Israeli quadcopters opened fire on rescue workers, delaying efforts to recover at least 25 people trapped under the rubble.

Israel calls in thousands of reservists for expanded ground campaign

The Israeli army has begun mobilising thousands of reservists to strengthen its military presence in Gaza, signalling a long-term campaign aimed at defeating Hamas and recovering Israeli hostages. An Israeli official told the media that the war cabinet had unanimously approved a plan proposed by Chief of Staff General Herzi Halevi to intensify attacks and gain greater territorial control.

Israel releases AI-generated video depicting destruction of Al-Aqsa Mosque

The strategy reportedly includes creating a wider “buffer zone” inside Gaza and seizing more territory to disrupt aid supply routes to Hamas. Israeli media suggest this campaign may last for several months, with the first phase focused on expanding control over northern Gaza.

High casualties and hostilities strain Israel’s domestic front

Since October 7, when Hamas launched a cross-border assault that killed around 1,200 people and resulted in the abduction of 251 individuals, the conflict has led to over 52,500 deaths in Gaza, including 2,459 after Israel resumed operations on March 18 following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire.

Despite Israel’s intensified pressure on Hamas, no hostages have been released since the latest military escalation. Critics argue that the renewed offensive has failed to secure the hostages’ freedom and raised doubts about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s long-term objectives.

Critics accuse Netanyahu of politicising the conflict

Netanyahu continues to face backlash from families of hostages and political opponents who accuse him of sabotaging ceasefire negotiations to prolong the war for political gain. He has denied the allegations, maintaining that the military operations are necessary to eliminate Hamas and rescue hostages.

Mossad’s ex-officials urge Netanyahu to end Gaza war, secure hostage release

Veteran Israeli figures like former Mossad chief Danny Yatom have expressed scepticism over the prime minister’s intentions. “We believe Netanyahu prioritises his political survival over the lives of the hostages,” said Yatom, who was also a signatory to the ceasefire appeal letters alongside other critics of the government.

Internal dissent rises as reservists resist repeated deployments

The call-up of reservists comes amid rising fatigue and discontent within the Israeli military. Many reservists, some of whom have been summoned five or six times since the start of the war, are increasingly reluctant to serve. Reports suggest that attendance rates in the reserve forces have dropped to between 50% and 60%.

Analysts warn that expanded operations could further strain the already stretched military and inflame public sentiment, especially as hostage families continue to demand negotiations over military escalation.

Diplomatic standoff persists as ceasefire talks fail

Efforts by international mediators to secure a new ceasefire and the release of the remaining 59 hostages held by Hamas have so far failed. While Israel’s security cabinet has approved broader military action, reports indicate that major operations may not begin until after U.S. President Donald Trump concludes his upcoming visit to the region.

Pakistan’s government, opposition unite against Israeli violence in Gaza

The growing scale of Israel’s campaign, its impact on civilians, and mounting criticism from within the country suggest that the conflict may intensify further in the coming weeks, with no resolution in sight.