The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Thursday announced that it has started operational preparations to withdraw troops from the Gaza Strip, following the agreement between Israel and Hamas on the first stage of United States President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan.
In an official statement, the IDF said, “Per the directives of the political echelon and in accordance with a situation assessment, the IDF has begun operational preparations for the implementation of the agreement.” It added that the military will soon reposition to “adjusted deployment lines” as part of the plan.
While preparations for troop withdrawal have begun, the IDF clarified that its forces remain deployed in the area and are “preparing for any operational development.”
The move comes after President Trump confirmed earlier this week that Israel and Hamas had agreed to the first phase of his peace plan, paving the way for the release of hostages and prisoners held on both sides.
The Gaza conflict, which began after the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel, has resulted in devastating losses. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed, including more than 20,000 children, while Israel reports the deaths of around 1,200 people from the initial assault.
If successfully implemented, the agreement could mark a turning point in the long-standing conflict and lay the groundwork for lasting peace and humanitarian recovery in the region.