The overnight withdrawal, without explanation on the six month anniversary of the war, left only the Nahal Brigade in a stationary position in the central east-west artery to prevent return to the northern Strip

In a surprise move, the IDF has withdrawn almost all of its forces from the Gaza Strip, leaving only the Nahal infantry brigade and units of Bigade 401 behind to guard the central east-west corridor from Israel to the sea, primarily to prevent the return of residents and gunmen in the south to northern Gaza. Up to several hundred thousand Gazans remain in the northern sector.

The move comes after fourth intensive months for the 98th Division in Khan Yunis, much of it dealing with underground threats.

It is unclear whether the retreat is tactical, a response to US demands, a redeployment in anticipation of an expected attack from Iran or Lebanon, or what. Military officials have said that further action in Rafah cannot be ruled out. Some have speculated that the withdrawal will relieve the pressure of refugees in Rafah, as they will be allowed to move freely to the south and central Strip.

The move leaves a vacuum of power in southern Gaza, with no IDF presence on the ground. At its peak the IDF had up to 40,000 troops in the Strip. Now there are less than a thousand. There is also the unanswered question of how the withdrawal will impact efforts to return the hostages.