Israeli Defense Forces Prepare to Reduce Troop Presence in Gaza to Pre-October Levels

Despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's firm statement rejecting the 15-point document and insisting Israel will not withdraw from Gaza before Hamas is fully disarmed, the Israeli defense establishment is reportedly planning a significant reduction in its military forces in the Gaza Strip. This drawdown is expected to bring troop levels back to those seen before the October 7 massacre.

Currently, two divisions operate in Gaza: the organic Gaza Division and the reserve Division 99, which has alternated with Division 252 over the past year. After several months of active deployment, Division 99 is set to conclude its mission without a replacement, leaving the Gaza Division as the sole military division operating in the area.

The Gaza Division is a regional unit comprising northern and southern brigades, supplemented by additional battalions and brigades on the ground. The planned significant reduction in forces signals a clear strategic direction regarding the security situation and military control in Gaza for the near future.

This development comes amid ongoing tensions and recent reports from soldiers indicating a decrease in active engagement rules, such as reduced responses to crossing "yellow lines." The move reflects a shift in Israel's military posture in Gaza following the intense conflict earlier in October.