The Israel Defense Forces has been drawing down forces in the Gaza Strip in recent days, as the major offensive it launched against Hamas three months ago, dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots,” appears to have ended.

When the IDF began the offensive in May, Defense Minister Israel Katz and other Israeli officials said that the operation provided for “conquering Gaza” and retaining the territory; moving the Palestinian civilian population toward the south of the Strip; assaulting Hamas; and preventing the terror group from taking control of humanitarian aid supplies.

The main objectives of Gideon’s Chariots, they said, were “the defeat of Hamas in Gaza and the release of all the hostages.”

None of these goals and objectives have been achieved. Meanwhile, the IDF on Thursday said it was withdrawing the 98th Division — an elite formation of paratroopers and commando units — along with two reserve brigades from Gaza.

While political leaders initially said the offensive would see the IDF “conquer” the Strip, it was later clarified that the military would take control of around 75% of the territory, which is where things currently stand.

The IDF did not plan to advance further in Gaza, as Hamas has threatened to execute hostages if troops are seen approaching areas where they are held.

Still, some Israeli political leaders envisioned the army taking control of the entire Strip, and are still considering this.

The IDF has focused its operations in areas where it was able to determine that no hostages were being held. However, for over a month, those operations have mostly consisted of razing buildings, Hamas tunnels, and other infrastructure used by the........

© The Times of Israel