Fighting in Gaza, situation of civilians and more

Israel will begin pulling thousands of troops out of Gaza this week in preparation for a new phase of the conflict, the military announced on Monday, although a senior official warned they expected fighting to continue throughout the year.

The Israel Defense Forces’ announcement is the largest known departure of troops from the area since the start of the war against Hamas and the military said it was expanding its campaign in central and southern Gaza.

The 551st and 14th Brigades, made up of reservists, will return to their families and civilian life this week, the IDF said in a statement.

The IDF said the 828th Brigade, which trains squadron commanders, the 261st Brigade, which trains army officers, and the 460th Brigade, which trains armored corps, will return to their scheduled training.

The statement said the move is expected to “reduce the economic burden to a great extent” and help the troops “gather strength for the upcoming activities next year as the fighting continues and the need for their services will continue.” “

At a briefing on Sunday, IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said the purpose of the reservists’ return is to “ensure planning and preparation for the continuation of 2024… understanding that our need for operations and additional wars throughout this year will Will happen.” The war’s objectives, he said, “require a prolonged war”.

According to the United Nations, the focus of Israel’s ground campaign has shifted to the center and south of the enclave, but fighting continues in the north, where an estimated 52% to 65% of structures have been damaged and 46,000 homes have been completely destroyed. .

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