The Israel Defense Forces announced a full withdrawal of ground forces from southern Gaza, leaving a smaller force to maintain operations in the strip. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would not agree to any ceasefire unless Hamas frees all remaining hostages. The bulk of the troops withdrawing will be leaving Khan Younis, which had been Hamas’ central stronghold in the south. A significant force led by the 162nd division and the Nahal brigade will continue to operate in the Gaza strip. Netanyahu promised that the war in Gaza would continue, stating that “there is no war more just than this one.”
The Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant mentioned that Hamas has stopped functioning as a military organization in most parts of the Gaza Strip, but work remains to be done in other areas. The IDF has been pushing to invade Rafah, a town bordering Egypt that is home to about 1 million displaced Palestinians and what Israel believes are the last remnants of Hamas. Despite the progress in weakening Hamas, Israel’s retaliatory war against the group shows no signs of ending. The United States is opposed to Israel invading the region due to fears that it could result in a significant loss of civilian lives.
Netanyahu made it clear that there would be no ceasefire without the return of hostages, and Hamas was preventing a deal from being reached by making extreme demands. He emphasized that it is not Israel that is blocking a deal but Hamas, as their demands are aimed at securing a ceasefire while maintaining their ability to threaten Israeli citizens and soldiers. Netanyahu welcomed the Biden administration’s stance on the issue, reiterating that no ceasefire will be agreed upon until all hostages are returned. He also highlighted that giving in to Hamas’s demands would only embolden the group to continue their violent actions.
The IDF’s 98th commando division concluded its mission in Khan Younis and left Gaza to regroup and prepare for future operations. The remaining force, led by the 162nd division and the Nahal brigade, will maintain the IDF’s freedom of action and ability to conduct intelligence-based operations in the Gaza strip. Netanyahu noted that Israel would continue its military operations in Gaza as there was no war more just than the one against Hamas. Despite ongoing efforts to weaken Hamas, it remains a formidable threat to Israel’s security and stability in the region.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has entered its sixth month with no end in sight. Hamas’ refusal to release hostages and make extreme demands has prevented any ceasefire agreements from being reached. The U.S. and Israel remain at odds over plans to invade Rafah, with the U.S. concerned about the potential loss of civilian lives. Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza are aimed at weakening Hamas and ensuring the safety of its citizens. The situation remains complex and volatile, with both sides steadfast in their positions, and the conflict showing no signs of resolution.
