Israel ready for new talks with Egypt, reduces troops in South Gaza. Loktej World News

Jerusalem/Cairo 8 April (HIST). Israel said on Sunday it had left only one brigade as it pulled more troops from southern Gaza. Israel said it and Hamas have sent a team to Egypt for fresh talks on a possible ceasefire in the six-month conflict.

Israel has been drawing down troops in Gaza since the beginning of the year and is facing increasing pressure from its ally the US to improve the humanitarian situation, especially after the killing of seven aid workers last week. The military spokesman did not provide details about the reasons for the withdrawal of troops or the numbers involved, but Defense Minister Yoav Galant said the troops would prepare for future operations in Gaza. Both Israel and Hamas confirmed they were sending delegations to Egypt. Hamas wants a deal to end the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Israel said that after any ceasefire, it would root out Hamas which has vowed to destroy it.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there would be no deal without the release of the hostages and that he would not bow to international pressure. Hamas says an agreement should include freedom of movement of residents across the Gaza Strip.

More than 250 hostages were captured and about 1,200 people were killed during Hamas’ October 7 attack, according to Israeli figures. According to the Health Ministry in Gaza, more than 33,100 Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli attack. About 130 hostages are still being held hostage in Gaza. Asked about the withdrawal of troops from the enclave, Israel’s Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi told reporters that the army was adjusting to a long war. Gallant told a meeting with military officials that troops were being withdrawn and preparing for their next mission, according to a statement from his office.