Netanyahu presses army to accelerate Gaza City occupation: Hebrew media
'Israeli' media reported Saturday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to press ahead with the military operation to seize Gaza City, showing little urgency in negotiations over the release of captives despite public statements suggesting otherwise.
Military correspondent Nir Dvori of Channel 12 wrote that the 'Israeli' army has already begun preparations for the assault, with four brigades conducting maneuvers on the outskirts of Gaza City and in surrounding neighborhoods. Netanyahu has reportedly pushed the army to speed up its timetable and even rename the operation.
A military source told Maariv that “the prevailing impression is that the prime minister is determined to see the operation through to the end, as he knows that without it he will not be able to maintain government cohesion, which would otherwise collapse.”
The source added that the offensive, known as “Gideon’s Chariots 2”, is considered crucial for Netanyahu’s political survival, with far-right ministers including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich threatening to leave the coalition if the war effort is halted.
Mobilization, planning
The army is preparing to call up reserves starting September 2, after the summer break, in a move seen as evidence of readiness for a new phase of the war. Hospital directors in Gaza City have been told to prepare evacuation plans and transfer patients to the European Hospital in Khan Younis in anticipation of the operation.
Maariv reported that the military expects months of continued fighting, with plans to push Gaza City residents southward. Reserve duty will be extended, with about 130,000 soldiers expected to be called up into 2026. The army has already issued 60,000 call-up orders, while 20,000 reservists will have their service extended. Further mobilizations are planned for November and early 2026, according to Haaretz.
'Israeli' troops are already active in Zeitoun, a Gaza City neighborhood, and in Jabaliya refugee camp in the north, as part of the operation’s groundwork.
Political and international backdrop
Negotiations over a possible hostage deal remain unresolved. A military source told Maariv that 'Israel' was negotiating under a plan proposed by US envoy Steve Witkoff, which would involve releasing some captives without ending the war. Hamas has agreed to 'Israel’s' conditions, including returning 10 captives alive, but 'Israeli' officials have shifted their rhetoric regarding a broader deal.
