The Israeli military announced on Sunday that it had withdrawn a division of ground troops from southern Gaza, sparking speculation about its future plans as the conflict entered its sixth month.
Over the past several months, Israel has significantly reduced the number of troops on the ground in Gaza, with only a fraction of the soldiers that were initially deployed remaining in the territory.
The 98th Division, which had been stationed in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, has now left the area to “recuperate and prepare for future operations,” according to the army. This withdrawal means that there are currently no Israeli troops actively maneuvering in southern Gaza.
The move has raised questions about the possibility of an Israeli ground offensive in Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city. Despite warnings from the Biden administration about the catastrophic consequences of such an invasion, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to eliminate Hamas in all of Gaza, including Rafah.
While some displaced individuals in Rafah have started to return to Khan Younis, others remain cautious. Osama Asfour, a resident of Khan Younis sheltering in Rafah, expressed skepticism about the army’s announcement, stating, “I’m not going to go on an adventure with my life and my family’s lives.”
The White House has also expressed uncertainty about the implications of the troop withdrawal. John Kirby, a White House national security spokesman, noted that the move may simply be a rest and refit for the troops rather than a sign of an impending operation.
The departure of the 98th Division comes four months after Israeli forces invaded southern Gaza. Military officials have indicated that Hamas has attempted to re-establish itself in areas of the north following Israel’s withdrawals.
As the conflict continues, displaced individuals like Mohammed Radi, a restaurateur from Gaza City sheltering in Rafah, are growing increasingly weary. Radi expressed frustration and a desire for the war to end, stating, “We are exhausted after six months in tents.”
The situation in Gaza remains fluid, with the future of the conflict uncertain as both sides navigate the complexities of the ongoing conflict.
