TEL AVIV/GAZA — The Israeli army announced Saturday that it is issuing call-up orders to tens of thousands of reservists as it prepares to expand its military operations in the Gaza Strip, further intensifying an already devastating conflict.

The military said the reservists would begin reporting for duty in the coming week, without specifying the scale or focus of the planned escalation.

The decision comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Israel has barred the entry of aid, medicine, food, and commercial goods into the enclave since March 2, worsening conditions for the civilian population.

According to Palestinian health authorities, nearly 52,500 people — the majority women and children — have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza since the war began in October 2023.

Israel is currently facing multiple international legal proceedings over its actions in Gaza. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. The country is also on trial at the International Court of Justice in a genocide case brought by South Africa. — Agencies