The IDF has recently begun building a new system of outposts along the perimeter surrounding the Gaza Strip as part of its updated deployment in the area. This initiative coincides with the withdrawal of forces from the Netzarim enclave, with some of the soldiers previously stationed there reassigned to reinforce the new system.
The newly established outposts are designed to create a buffer between Israel and the Gaza Strip, aimed at preventing Palestinians from approaching the border and thwarting any attempts to harm Israeli communities near the Gaza-Israel border. The defensive system incorporates lessons learned from the October 7 attack.
Tens of thousands of Gazans moving to northern Gaza
Simultaneously with the establishment of the new outposts, the IDF initiated a partial withdrawal from the Netzarim corridor this morning (Monday), enabling the return of Gaza residents to the northern parts of the Strip.
According to IDF Arabic-language spokesperson Col. Avichay Adraee, pedestrian movement through the Netzarim corridor and Al-Rashid Street was permitted from 7:00 a.m. local time, with vehicular traffic on Salah al-Din Road allowed from 9:00 a.m.
These developments come amidst progress in negotiations between Israel and Hamas, which recently overcame a temporary crisis regarding the release of Israeli hostage Arbel Yehud. The dispute was resolved through Qatari mediation, with an agreement that Yehud, along with Agam Berger and another hostage, will be released this coming Thursday.
Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized this morning that Israel will continue to strictly enforce the ceasefires in both the north and the south, warning that any violation will be met with a strong response. Meanwhile, Palestinian residents have been cautioned against approaching IDF forces deployed in the area, including near the Rafah crossing, the Philadelphi Route, and troop concentrations in southern Gaza.
