The Israeli military has announced the withdrawal of its ground forces from Khan Younis in southern Gaza after months of intense conflict. The IDF’s 98th division, which spearheaded operations in the area, has completed its mission and is now regrouping for future endeavors. However, a substantial force led by the 162nd division and the Nahal brigade remains in Gaza to maintain the IDF’s operational capabilities.

IDF Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi emphasized that the withdrawal does not mark the end of operations in Gaza, with the military continuing to pursue its objectives, including the dismantling of Hamas infrastructure throughout the region. Despite the withdrawal from Khan Younis, Israel’s plans for potential incursions into Rafah, a significant Hamas stronghold, remain uncertain.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant affirmed that the withdrawal is part of a strategic repositioning, with troops preparing for follow-up missions, possibly including actions in the Rafah region. The IDF’s presence in Khan Younis yielded successful operations, targeting enemy infrastructure and eliminating threats.

The move comes amid international pressure on Israel to address civilian casualties and facilitate humanitarian aid access. In a recent call, US President Joe Biden urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take steps towards resolving the crisis.

Khan Younis, once designated as a safe zone for Gaza residents, became a focal point of conflict as IDF operations shifted southward. A massive air raid on December 1 targeted the city, prompting widespread evacuation warnings. The area has since witnessed intense fighting, resulting in significant devastation.

The IDF asserts that Khan Younis serves as a Hamas stronghold, citing the presence of tunnels and the city’s significance as the hometown of Hamas’ leader in Gaza. Hamas denies accusations of using civilian structures for military purposes.

The withdrawal signifies a tactical shift in Israel’s military strategy in Gaza, with ongoing efforts to mitigate the conflict’s humanitarian impact while maintaining pressure on Hamas.