The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are making preparations for a gradual withdrawal from certain areas of Gaza in anticipation of an upcoming ceasefire and hostage deal set to take effect on Sunday. A senior military official announced that the IDF will be adjusting its deployment and gradually pulling back from specific locations and routes within Gaza in line with the agreement and directives from the political leadership.
Currently, the IDF's 162nd Division is stationed in the north of Gaza, while the 143rd Division is positioned in the south. The official did not provide specific details on how these divisions would be impacted by the withdrawal. The 99th Division, responsible for the Netzarim Corridor, a crucial buffer zone established by the IDF that divides the Gaza Strip, will also be gradually relocating as the agreement progresses.
The official reiterated warnings to Gaza residents to avoid approaching areas where IDF troops are stationed, emphasizing that the troops' locations will be changing as the withdrawal unfolds. When asked about the phased withdrawals, the official mentioned that the IDF has been meticulously planning for this transition in recent days and weeks, but the final decisions will be made by the political leadership.
