Israel has mobilized a record 300,000 reservists in response to a multi-front Hamas attack from Gaza and is “going on the offensive,” according to the chief military spokesperson. Israeli aircraft have been striking Gaza targets, and ground forces are engaged in battles to regain control of border areas.
The chief military spokesperson mentioned that control has been re-established in some communities, but isolated clashes continue as some gunmen remain active.
“We are now carrying out searches in all of the communities and clearing the area,” Rear-Admiral Daniel Hagari stated in a televised briefing.
Military officials had initially emphasized securing Israel’s side of the border before escalating the counter-offensive in Gaza.
The call-up of 300,000 reservists since Saturday indicates preparations for a potential invasion, although such plans have not been officially confirmed.
“We have never drafted so many reservists on such a scale,” Rear-Admiral Daniel Hagari stated.
“We are going on the offensive.” He confirmed media reports of 700 casualties on Israel’s side, including 73 members of the security forces. Hagari also mentioned that Israel’s military had killed hundreds of Palestinian gunmen.