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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/01/world/middleeast/israel-gaza-troop-withdrawal.html
Israel to Pull Several Brigades from Gaza
(New York Times) Aaron Boxerman - The Israeli military said Monday it would begin withdrawing several thousand troops from Gaza at least temporarily, in the most significant publicly announced reduction since the war with Hamas began. Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari emphasized that the move did not suggest any compromise of Israel's intention to continue fighting until it destroys Hamas, and fighting across Gaza remained intense. Reservists from at least two brigades will be sent home this week, the Israeli military said, and three brigades will be taken back for scheduled training. "The withdrawal is a clear signal that the fight is entering a new phase, in line with what the U.S. has been asking for," said Lt.-Gen. Mark C. Schwartz, former American security coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Authority. IDF Brig.-Gen. (res.) Yossi Kuperwasser explained, "In substantial parts of northern Gaza, we're ready to advance to the next stage (of the fighting). We can dilute our forces there, because we've taken control. To hold on, you need fewer (forces) than it took to take over."