The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reduced their presence in southern Gaza as they prepare for the next phase of the conflict. They have withdrawn most of their ground troops from the area, leaving only one brigade behind. However, according to Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, the war is not yet over, and further operations are planned in the Gaza Strip.
In Israel, there have been protests calling for a hostage deal as the country marks six months since the deadly attacks by Hamas on October 7. The attacks resulted in the deaths of about 1,200 Israelis and the taking of more than 250 hostages.
The military campaign in Gaza, conducted by Israel, has led to the deaths of over 33,000 Palestinians, with a majority being women and children, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing increasing international and domestic criticism over Israel’s actions in Gaza. However, Israel maintains that its forces are working to minimize civilian casualties.