The Israeli military said Wednesday that it is calling up tens of thousands of reservists before the expanded military incursion into Gaza City, even as the country’s government is considering a proposal for a ceasefire with Palestinian militant group Hamas.

As the earliest stages of a massive assault on Gaza City take shape, Israel is calling up tens of thousands of reservists to take part in the impending military operation.

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.