IDF Begins Drawdown of Troops in Gaza Strip, Signaling a Long War Against Hamas

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Monday that it has begun to re-deploy some of its troops in the Gaza Strip in preparation for a long war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

In a statement, the IDF said five brigades, or several thousand troops, would be moved out of the Gaza Strip. This marks the first significant drawdown of troops since the war began on October 7th, following a Hamas terror attack on southern Israel.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesperson, told reporters that the troop movement could signal that fighting is being scaled back in some areas of Gaza, particularly in the northern half. He added that the IDF is close to assuming operational control in the region.

The drawdown of troops comes as the IDF continues to bear down on the main city in the southern half of the enclave. The military has been engaged in a series of airstrikes and ground operations in the area in an effort to weaken Hamas’ capabilities.

The IDF has not provided any timeline for the troop withdrawal, but officials have said that the military is prepared to wage a long war against Hamas. The drawdown of troops is seen as a sign that the IDF is confident in its ability to maintain control over the region.