May 13, 2021
Israel’s army is deploying near the border of the Gaza Strip in preparation for a potential ground invasion of the beleaguered Palestinian enclave.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) called up an additional 9,000 reserve soldiers on Thursday in what Defense Secretary Benny Gantz called an “exceptional” mobilization.
The force includes units from the 7th Armored Brigade, IDF Paratroopers Brigade and the Golani Infantry Brigade, IDF spokesman Hidai Zilberman said.
The three brigades are now preparing for a potential ground incursion at a division headquarters under Israel’s Southern Command, IDF spokesman Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus told reporters. The IDF is preparing to present plans for a potential incursion to Israel’s government for approval.