Tensions Escalate in Gaza: Israeli Army Calls Up Reservists, Netanyahu Postpones Azerbaijan Visit
Israeli-In response to the collapse of ceasefire negotiations with Hamas and rising regional tensions, the Israeli military has called up tens of thousands of reservists for expanded operations in Gaza. This move, approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is part of a broader strategy aimed at intensifying military action to defeat Hamas and secure the release of the remaining 59 hostages.
Weezharoz-Many of the reservists now being summoned have already been mobilized multiple times since the war began in October 2023.
Some are being redeployed to other hotspots, including the borders with Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank, to allow active forces to focus on Gaza operations.
Over the past 24 hours, Israeli airstrikes have hit several locations in Gaza, including the refugee centers in Al-Bureij and Khan Younis, as well as Gaza City and Beit Lahia, reportedly killing at least 40 people. Local civil society groups stated that the victims include infants.
Amid the military escalation, Prime Minister Netanyahu has postponed his planned visit to Azerbaijan, originally scheduled for May 7–11, citing security concerns related to the situations in Gaza and Syria.
The mass call-up and heightened military activity come at a time when Israeli society is experiencing growing internal pressure.
Some reservists are reportedly refusing deployment due to fatigue and family stress, and recent polls suggest that a majority of Israelis favor a negotiated deal for the hostages over continued warfare.
As the humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza, the international community has voiced serious concerns and urged renewed diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Weezharoz
