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The Israeli military announced Sunday a major withdraws from Gaza of most ground troops. The Gaza Strip offensive in the southern city of Khan Younis is complete. And only one brigade will remain in the area.

On October 7 more than 250 hostages were seized. And over 1,200 people were killed during the attack.

According to the health ministry in Gaza more than 33,100 Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli counter-offensive.

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Withdraws from Gaza

Israeli forces have initiated a significant pullback from Gaza, with most ground troops retreating. The move follows mounting global pressure to mitigate civilian casualties amidst ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Remaining forces, primarily the Nahal Brigade will remain to police the area.

The Israeli military announced that the remaining Nahal Brigade includes several thousand soldiers whose stated mission is to prevent Palestinians from returning to northern Gaza. And to conduct "precision" strikes on Hamas across the territory.

Rafah Offensive

Uncertainty looms over the fate of Israel’s planned incursion into Rafah. And reports claim that the Rafa offense is on-hold.  

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu advocates for the operation to eradicate Hamas, international leaders, including President Joe Biden are urging restraint. They fear that civilian casualties and claim there is an urgent need for diplomatic resolution. 

Hamas has long been using civilians and now the remaining Israeli hostages as human shields.

In the meantime, the focus of recent offensives has shifted to southern Gaza.

War Update

On Sunday, thousands of Israelis gathered for the funeral of Elad Katzir. He was one of the hostages seized on Oct. 7 by militants. The Israeli military report Katzir was murdered in captivity. His body was "rescued" from Gaza on Saturday. 

Katzir’s mother, Hana, was also kidnapped on October 7. And she was released on Nov. 24 as part of the first cease-fire deal. His father, Avraham, was murdered in the kibbutz during the Hamas invasion. 

Efforts towards a ceasefire intensify, with Egypt poised to host crucial negotiations involving both Israeli and Hamas representatives. Central to any agreement is the release of what Israel believes are 133 hostages still held in Gaza. But Hamas’ uncompromising demands remain a stumbling block.

 Meanwhile, Pope Francis seeks to provide solace. And he is meeting with the families of hostages this week.

Amidst these developments, Israel granted approval to open the Erez crossing. This move facilitates the delivery of essential supplies to Gaza's beleaguered population. 

As tensions persist and diplomatic efforts intensify, the region remains on edge, with the hope for peace hanging in the balance.