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The Israeli military has called up 60,000 reservists and extended the service of 20,000 more as it prepares for a new phase of operations in Gaza City, targeting remaining Hamas strongholds in densely populated urban areas. Israeli troops are already active in the Zeitoun and Jabaliya neighborhoods to prepare for the expanded offensive, which awaits final approval from the chief of staff. The operation aims to dismantle Hamas' underground tunnel network and secure the release of remaining hostages. This escalation follows nearly two years of conflict since Hamas' October 2023 attacks on Israel, which killed around 1,200 people and resulted in the abduction of 251 hostages. While ceasefire negotiations continue, some members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition oppose any deal that does not fully defeat Hamas. The planned offensive has raised international concerns over worsening humanitarian conditions and potential mass displacement in Gaza, where critical infrastructure is severely damaged and hundreds of thousands remain displaced. (Updated 21 Aug 2025, 18:36 IST; source: link)