Israel Mobilizes Reservists for Expanded Gaza Offensive Amid Criticism of Qatar

Israel has begun mobilizing reservists for an expanded Gaza offensive, with Prime Minister Netanyahu accusing Qatar of manipulation in the conflict. Reports of new military actions come after earlier ceasefires faltered. As casualties mount, both civilian and military, protests in Israel call for hostage releases amid intensifying calls for military action.

In a significant escalation of military efforts, Israel is mobilizing tens of thousands of reservists in preparation for an expanded offensive in Gaza, as reported by various Israeli media outlets this Saturday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized Qatar, the nation involved in mediating peace talks, for allegedly supporting both Hamas and Israel. This development comes as tensions rise with ongoing military operations in Gaza since March 18 following a tenuous two-month ceasefire.

Israeli military orders have begun circulating to replace active-duty personnel with reservists, although a military spokesperson did not provide confirmation of such reports. Relatives of journalists working with AFP have reported receiving these mobilization orders, signifying a potential ramp-up in military activities. Meanwhile, the security cabinet is expected to convene on Sunday to consider formalizing the proposed expansion of military actions.

The situation took a downturn when Israel resumed its military operations this month despite a ceasefire that had been established in January through efforts by Qatar, the U.S. and Egypt. Netanyahu’s remarks targeted Qatar, suggesting its foreign policy involves “double talk.” He urged Qatar to clarify its stance regarding Hamas and Israel, asserting, “Israel will win this just war with just means.”

Qatar has dismissed Netanyahu’s accusations as inflammatory, calling them unresponsible and asserting that they do not meet acceptable standards for moral or political discourse. The ongoing blockade of aid to Gaza since March 2 has raised alarms from UN agencies who warn of a looming humanitarian crisis.

Hamas has shared a video of hostages, including a Russian-Israeli national, following a devastating airstrike that claimed 11 Palestinian lives, including infants. The health ministry in Gaza reported at least 2,396 fatalities since Israel resumed military actions, increasing the overall death toll in the ongoing conflict to 52,495 as of the last reports.

Currently, 58 hostages are believed to be held by Hamas, with conflicting reports claiming that 34 are dead. In a recent video released by Hamas, Maxim Herkin was shown appearing injured and calling for action to secure the release of hostages. Demonstrations have emerged in Israel, with crowds outside the defense ministry demanding government intervention for the safe return of all captives.

Critics of the renewed offensive emphasize that military actions could endanger these hostages, adding to an already precarious situation for those held. A family forum entreats that any further intensification of conflict poses immediate risks to the captives, as dissent grows among civilians who question the war’s justification.

In Gaza, civilian casualties continue to mount, exemplified by an Israeli strike in Khan Yunis that left several dead, including three infants. Eyewitnesses recounted the explosive moments clearly, with shock evident in both survivors and bystanders. Local reports indicate targeted strikes are directed against alleged Hamas members, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. Rescue workers are now left to sift through the debris, searching for survivors in the aftermath of devastation.

As Israel gears up for a more extensive offensive in Gaza amid rising conflict, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s criticism of Qatar highlights the complexities of international mediation in this crisis. The ongoing violence has resulted in high civilian casualties on both sides and has raised urgent humanitarian concerns. Demonstrations in Israel demanding action for hostage situations, coupled with opposing views on the legitimacy of the offensive, reflect the tensions within the country as the conflict escalates further. Understanding the geopolitical dynamics and humanitarian implications remains crucial as Israel continues to confront Hamas in a cycle of violence and retaliation.

Original Source: www.nst.com.my