The Israeli government has approved a bill allowing the military to call up 400,000 reserve soldiers amid growing fears of renewed fighting in Gaza following the expiration of the first phase of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement, Israeli media reported.

Mobilization Plan Expands by 80,000 Soldiers

Israeli Channel 14 reported that the new authorization increases the military’s call-up capacity by 80,000 soldiers—up from a previously approved limit of 320,000—allowing up to 400,000 reserve troops to be mobilized by May 29. The decision was made as delays stalled the start of negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.

“This decision comes amid ongoing challenges in recruiting human resources for reserve duty,” the channel noted.

Ceasefire Phase One Ends Without Progress

The initial six-week phase of the ceasefire, which began on January 19, officially expired at midnight on Saturday. Israel has refused to enter phase two of the deal, which was intended to bring a complete halt to hostilities and include a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

Instead, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly sought to prolong the prisoner exchange process to free as many hostages as possible without meeting the deal’s humanitarian or military obligations.

Hamas Rejects One-Sided Extensions

Hamas has rejected any continuation of the agreement under Israeli terms, insisting that Israel fully honor the ceasefire framework. This includes immediate negotiations on the second phase and halting all military operations in Gaza.

The conflict has left the enclave devastated, with over 48,380 reported fatalities—mostly women and children—according to Palestinian sources.

Legal and Political Backdrop

The escalation comes as Israel faces increasing legal scrutiny. Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza. Separately, the International Court of Justice is hearing a genocide case against Israel.