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Source: https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-864829
IDF Calls Up Reservists for Assault on Gaza City
(Jerusalem Post) Herb Keinon - The IDF on Wednesday announced plans to call up 60,000 reservists over the next two weeks for a large-scale assault on Gaza City. Reservists, who have already put their civilian lives on hold multiple times since Oct. 7, are being asked to do so again. When the orders are issued, the reservists report for duty. They may complain, but when the call comes, they lace up their boots. The frustration is real, but so is the commitment. Israelis argue, protest, and grumble - and then, for the most part, show up. Among regular soldiers, the 18- and 19-year-olds who make up the backbone of the IDF, motivation is surging. 3/4 of eligible young men volunteer for combat units. Among women, more than half express a desire to serve in fighting units, a record high. While much of the West struggles to fill its military ranks, in Israel - now in its longest war since 1948 - young people are stepping forward in the greatest numbers in decades, with a willingness that speaks to a national spirit that remains strong. Israel in August 2025 is a country weary, yet determined; convinced the war against Hamas is existential; fatigued, but far from broken. Both those called back and those just called up know they are fighting a war barbarically thrust upon the country - one that Israel cannot afford to lose.