Israel approves callup of reservists for Gaza offensive

12/28/2008 | 07:30 PM

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JERUSALEM – An Israeli government official says Israel's Cabinet has approved the callup of reserve soldiers for its Gaza offensive.

The Cabinet decision enables the defense minister to call up reservists as the offensive requires. The announcement was made by the Cabinet secretary, Ovad Yehezkel.

Yehezkel did no say how many soldiers could be called up. Earlier, government officials said thousands could be called to service.

He quoted Prime Minister Ehud Olmert as telling the Cabinet the fighting in Gaza would be "long, painful and difficult." Olmert told the ministers Israel would have to withstand international pressure. - AP

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