Israeli Army Trains Reserve Soldiers, Prepares for Gaza

The Israeli army has begun using civilian contractors to compensate for a shortage of engineering equipment as part of preparations to occupy Gaza City. Retired Navy Commander Major General Eliazer Tsini stated that these individuals are not soldiers but civilians working under a military mission.

Tsini described the occupation of Gaza City as a long and complex process, noting that the city is “almost the size of Tel Aviv, with high-rise buildings and an extensive tunnel network,” and emphasized that the evacuation of civilians is a key part of the operation. He added that the government has decided to fully reoccupy the Gaza Strip, even if it risks the lives of prisoners.

On Tuesday, the Israeli army called tens of thousands of reserve soldiers to duty. The soldiers are being trained with fully equipped combat gear and tactical equipment, conducting drills in both urban and open areas. Approximately 60,000 reserve soldiers will undergo 3–4 days of training, and some units will take over the duties of regular army units in the north.

Last Friday, Gaza City was declared a “dangerous combat zone.” The attacks have resulted in numerous Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction throughout the city. Reports indicate that the Israeli army is using explosive robots to destroy homes and applying a “scorched earth” policy.

According to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan, operations will begin in Gaza City with the forced relocation of residents southward, followed by the encirclement of the city and targeted incursions into residential areas. Since October 7, 2023, the war led by Israel has resulted in 63,633 Palestinian deaths, 160,914 injuries, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. Due to hunger and malnutrition, 361 people, including 130 children, have also died.