IDF says troops ready for ‘immediate’ return to fighting as it preps for start of ceasefire

The Israel military says it is on heightened alert for various scenarios that could occur as the ceasefire with Hamas takes effect tomorrow morning.

Overnight, the IDF Southern Command will work to redeploy troops inside the Gaza Strip, withdrawing from urban areas and positioning them on lines that were agreed upon between Israel and Hamas. A large amount of forces will be moving around during the night and the morning hours.

Also in the hours before the ceasefire takes effect at 8:30 a.m., the IDF says it will continue to carry out strikes and destroy infrastructure used by Hamas in Gaza.

The Southern Command is also bolstering troops and air defenses along the border with Gaza, and preparing to respond to incidents if required. The military assesses that there could be rocket fire from Gaza ahead of the ceasefire or even during it.

Still, there are no changes to the Home Front Command guidelines for civilians.

Lastly, the Southern Command is readying for the release of the hostages, who will be handed over to troops inside the Strip by the Red Cross and then brought to one of three army facilities near the border for an initial checkup. From there, the IDF will escort them to hospitals to meet their families.

If the ceasefire deal falls apart, or if the second stage is not implemented at the end of the 42 days, the IDF says it is ready to “immediately” return to fighting, according to what is decided by Israel.