Israeli Military Announces ‘New Phase’ of Operations Aimed at Seizing Gaza City
Israeli Army Begins ‘New Phase’ of Gaza City Offensive, Forcing Mass Displacement
Israeli forces have launched what they describe as a “new phase” of their military campaign to seize Gaza City, intensifying a war that has already claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives.
Military spokesman Effie Defrin said troops had entered the second stage of ground operations, code-named Operation Gideon’s Chariots, and were holding positions on the city’s outskirts. He added that Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir ordered 60,000 additional reservists to be mobilized, while extending service for another 20,000. Israel now claims “75 percent operational control” of Gaza.
The move follows a plan approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s War Cabinet to reoccupy Gaza in stages, beginning with Gaza City. The strategy envisions forcing nearly one million Palestinians to flee southward while Israeli forces encircle the city and storm residential districts.
On August 11, Israel launched a large-scale assault on Gaza City’s Zeitoun neighborhood. Witnesses reported artillery barrages, home demolitions using explosive-laden robots, and widespread displacement.
Since October 2023, Israel’s bombardment has killed more than 62,100 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials. The enclave has been left in ruins, with UN-backed experts warning of famine and systematic starvation.
Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.
The escalation in Gaza City marks a turning point, as Israeli leaders openly discuss plans for a long-term reoccupation despite mounting international condemnation.
