Defense Minister Katz Orders IDF to Maintain Troop Levels in Gaza Envelope Communities

Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Katz has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to maintain the current troop deployment in communities surrounding the Gaza Strip, known as the Gaza envelope, reversing a prior IDF decision to reduce forces in the area. This directive was issued on Wednesday following concerns raised by local residents about their security and the desire to preserve their sense of safety amid ongoing tensions. The decision came after a situation assessment led by Katz last week and was reportedly influenced by friction between the Defense Minister and the IDF Chief of Staff. The Defense Ministry clarified that the order aims to sustain the existing defensive posture until further notice, ensuring that the security needs of the Gaza envelope communities are met.