IDF forces in Gaza smallest since war began

With the ceasefire in the south continuing to hold and hostages continuing to be released, the IDF has now drawn down its forces in the Gaza Strip to the smallest number since the war began, according to Army Radio reporter Doron Kadosh.

The 99th Division, which held the Netzarim Corridor bisecting the northern Gaza Strip from its center and south, has now been pulled out of the line following the dismantlement of the corridor in accordance with the hostage deal.

The reserve "Harel" Jerusalem Brigade has also completed its assigned time in the Strip in the Netzarim Corridor and its soldiers have been sent home.

The IDF is now left with the two core divisions in the Gaza Strip - the 162nd and the Gaza Division - which fought in the Strip since the beginning of the war.

The 162nd holds the northern sector of the Strip's perimeter and protects towns such as Zikim and Be'eri.

The Gaza Division holds the southern sector of the buffer zone from Be'eri to Kerem Shalom, including the Philadelphi Corridor.

If Israel moves forward with the second phase of the hostage deal, then the IDF will need to withdraw from the Philadelphi Corridor after the last of the first stage hostages are released. Likud Minister Amichai Chikli openly said that he would resign from the government if that happens.

Minister Bezalel Smotrich has similarly insisted that the hostage deal not move forward to the second stage and that Israel renew the fighting as soon as the first phase is finished. Indeed, he insisted on staying in the government rather than leave like Itamar Ben-Gvir did to ensure the war continues.

For his part, Ben-Gvir has said that he will not return to the government unless and until it begins to take practical steps to ensure the relocation of the Gazan population from the Strip to other countries, in accordance with President Trump's plan.