We Are Not Backing Down. The Army Remains in the Gaza Strip. Israel

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will not leave the Gaza Strip and will not cease military operations; instead, it is only reducing their intensity. This is a result of the Hamas movement expressing a willingness to discuss the U.S. conflict resolution plan, reports Ynet portal, citing a high-ranking source.

“We are in the first phase of that plan. The IDF remains in Gaza, and the withdrawal of troops will only be up to the 'yellow line' and around the city of Gaza during the hostage release phase. We are not backing down, but the army remains in the Gaza Strip,” the source stated.

According to the White House's plan, the 'yellow line' is the boundary in the Gaza Strip where IDF units will deploy as long as the release of hostages is ongoing.

“No one is leaving right now; we are reducing the intensity of military operations, this is not a ceasefire. In the first phase, hostages will be released. After that, we will continue negotiations,” the portal's interlocutor noted.

It was previously reported that the IDF had been ordered to cease attacks in Gaza City, limiting itself to defensive operations for self-defense.

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has discussed with military commanders the preparatory work for implementing the first phase of Trump’s plan regarding Gaza.

The plan involves the release of live Israeli hostages, as well as the return of the bodies of the deceased within 72 hours. In exchange, a ceasefire is anticipated.