Global News Podcast
Israeli army starts calling up reservists for planned expansion of Gaza offensive
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.
30:50
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Quick takeaways
- Israel's military is expanding its operations in Gaza by calling up reservists, amidst growing public dissatisfaction and war fatigue.
- The successful missile attack by Houthi rebels highlights vulnerabilities in Israel's defense systems, impacting regional security dynamics.
Deep dives
Israeli Military Expansion Plans
Israel's military is preparing to expand its offensive in Gaza by calling up thousands of reservists, with this move confirmed by military chief Eyal Zamir. This decision comes amid widespread criticism of the ongoing strategies aimed at pressuring Hamas for the release of hostages, with many citizens expressing dissatisfaction. Reports indicate that the majority of Israelis now favor prioritizing a hostage deal over further military actions, reflecting public war fatigue after months of conflict. The growing number of reservists, many of whom have already served multiple tours, raises concerns about their well-being and the potential impact on Israel's future military engagements.
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