The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has begun to redeploy some of its troops from the Gaza Strip in preparation for a long war against Hamas. The drawdown of troops marks the first significant drawdown since the war began on October 7th, and Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari has stated that the IDF is close to assuming operational control in the region. The troop withdrawal is seen as a sign that the IDF is confident in its ability to maintain control over the region.