Israeli army orders mass reservist call-up ahead of Gaza offensive expansion: media report

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued call-up orders to tens of thousands of reservists in preparation for an escalation of its military campaign in the Gaza Strip, according to Israeli media reports.

Most of the reservists will replace active-duty soldiers currently deployed in northern Israel and the West Bank, so as to allow those troops to be redeployed to Gaza to reinforce the ground offensive, according to the reports.

During a security briefing on Friday, the IDF outlined its expanded operational plans in Gaza to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The security cabinet is expected to meet on Sunday to vote on formally approving the plans, which Netanyahu has already greenlit.

Israeli authorities have consistently cautioned that if no agreement is reached soon, a full-scale assault aimed at dismantling Hamas could begin. The forthcoming phase of the offensive will include IDF activity in additional areas of the Gaza Strip.

China Media Group (CMG), the country's flagship broadcaster, unveiled its 2026 flagship drama lineup in Beijing on Friday.

CMG will broadcast 55 major TV series and three short dramas ranging from historical epics to contemporary storylines that reflect everyday life, social change, and the spirit of the times.

The new lineup will align natural narrative and creative innovation with the country's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), continuously amplify the voice of mainstream values, and continue promoting the deep integration of film and television with cultural tourism, according to CMG.