Southern Gaza
The Israeli military has announced the withdrawal of its ground troops from the southern Gaza Strip, including Khan Younis, amid conflicting reports regarding the extent and duration of the disengagement.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the army declared the conclusion of the mission of its 98th commando division in Khan Younis, stating that the division has left the Gaza Strip to recuperate and prepare for future operations.
However, it emphasized that a significant force, led by the 162nd division and the Nahal brigade, remains operational in the Gaza Strip to preserve the IDF’s freedom of action and its capability to conduct precise intelligence-based operations.
While the military confirmed the withdrawal to Reuters news agency, it mentioned that one brigade has remained, though specifics were not provided. Typically, an Israeli brigade consists of a few thousand soldiers.
It remains uncertain whether the reported withdrawal will postpone a long-anticipated incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, which Israeli leaders have deemed necessary to eliminate Hamas.
Al Jazeera correspondent Imran Khan suggested that the Israeli claim of withdrawal might signify a new strategy. While acknowledging that the troop reduction may not require the current number of forces, he highlighted Israeli military analysts’ perspective, suggesting a potential redeployment for an impending ground offensive into Rafah. Khan also noted the United States’ opposition to such a plan.
Meanwhile, the White House commented on the partial withdrawal, interpreting it as an opportunity for troops to “rest and refit,” citing fatigue after four months on the ground.
The Israeli announcement coincided with the six-month mark of its war on Gaza, described by the International Court of Justice as a “plausible case of genocide.”
Egypt is preparing to host new talks aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of captives held by Hamas, which is among the demands made by the group before agreeing to a ceasefire with Israel.
Israel’s offensive in Gaza, initiated following an attack by Hamas on Israel six months ago, has primarily focused on the southern region of the Palestinian enclave. Rafah has emerged as a refuge for over a million Palestinians near the border with Egypt.
The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and displaced thousands, with the United Nations warning of the risk of widespread famine due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
