Israel has ordered the mobilisation of 60,000 reservists as tensions escalate in the Gaza conflict, even as Egypt advances a proposal aimed at securing a ceasefire through the disarmament of Hamas.
The call-up, confirmed by the Israeli military on Tuesday, underscores growing concerns of an expanded ground operation should diplomatic efforts stall. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has repeatedly insisted that Hamas must be stripped of its military capabilities as a prerequisite for any long-term truce.
Meanwhile, Egyptian officials are quietly lobbying regional and international partners to back a plan that would see Hamas relinquish its heavy weaponry in exchange for phased reconstruction aid and political concessions. Cairo, which has historically acted as a mediator in Gaza conflicts, believes the framework could offer a pathway to both immediate de-escalation and lasting stability.
Israeli leaders have so far responded cautiously, with defence officials signalling scepticism over whether Hamas would agree to disarm voluntarily. Palestinian factions, including Hamas, have yet to issue a formal response, though sources close to the group say it is unlikely to accept such terms without significant guarantees.
Analysts warn that the dual track of military mobilisation and diplomatic manoeuvring reflects both the urgency of the crisis and the fragility of the current situation. With civilian casualties rising and international pressure mounting, the coming days are expected to be pivotal in shaping the trajectory of the conflict.
