Israel has intensified its military build-up as reservists began responding to call-up orders ahead of a planned offensive to capture Gaza City, nearly two years into a devastating conflict, AFP reports.

In a statement, the military said it had in recent days “been carrying out logistical and operational preparations ahead of expanded combat operations and the large-scale mobilisation of reservists”.

Israeli media reported that reservists began responding to draft orders, with Channel 12 saying a second wave was expected in November.

Read more here.