Global News Podcast Israeli army starts calling up reservists for planned expansion of Gaza offensive
38 snips
May 5, 2025 
Anshul Pfeffer, the Israel correspondent for The Economist, and Hugo Bichega, a correspondent in Jerusalem, discuss Israel's military mobilization as tens of thousands of reservists prepare for an expanded operation in Gaza. They address the strategic aim of pressuring Hamas for hostage releases while grappling with allegations of war crimes. The conversation also touches on humanitarian crises exacerbated by blockades and the complexities of regional tensions, including missile threats from Yemen. Insights into the broader political ramifications enrich this urgent dialogue.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Israeli Military Expansion & Blockade
- Israel is calling up tens of thousands of reservists to expand its offensive in Gaza amid a humanitarian blockade.
- Aid agencies warn this blockade causes starvation and may amount to a war crime, a charge Israel denies.
Israeli Public Opinion & Reservist Fatigue
- Many Israelis oppose the expansion strategy, preferring a hostage release deal with a ceasefire even if Hamas remains.
- Reservists called up repeatedly face exhaustion and personal disruption with uncertain military gains.
Houthis Missile Threat to Israel
- Houthis in Yemen have launched a missile that penetrated Israel's sophisticated defenses, exposing vulnerabilities.
- Despite intensified US and Saudi attacks, Houthis remain resilient and continue strikes in solidarity with Hamas.