Israel is preparing a major escalation in the Gaza war, with top generals approving a plan to call up at least 50,000 reservists for a “new phase of operations.” -The assault will target densely populated areas of Gaza City where the Israeli military has not yet operated.

Troops have reached the city’s outskirts, an Israeli official said, adding that more reservists are being asked to report for duty to cover for other soldiers who will be involved in going into Gaza City.

Israel will call up 50,000 reservists before a planned offensive to take Gaza City but most forces that would operate in the Gaza Strip's largest urban centre would be active duty soldiers, an Israeli military official said on Wednesday.