(NewsNation) – As questions swirled around whether the war de-escalated or Israel regrouped its troops in Gaza Israel Defense Forces announced Tuesday that it has taken secure control Hamas‘ Intelligence and Control Center in Gaza City.

Heavy fighting was reported in the southern Gaza Strip town of Khan Younis on Tuesday morning, just a day after Israel announced it draw thousands of his soldiers from the Palestinian territory in the coming weeks.

The military has not said publicly whether the withdrawal reflects a new phase in the war. But the move is in line with Israeli leaders’ plans for a low-intensity campaign focused on remaining Hamas strongholds that could last much of the year.

In addition, Israel said its operational control over most of the northern Gaza Strip has reduced the need for military forces there.

Some have speculated that the pullback is coming in the wake of the genocide allegations Submitted by South Africa to the World Court. Israel rejected the allegations, calling them a “blood libel” and saying the country would do so continues to defend himself against such claims.

Israel is under international pressure to scale back its offensive that has killed nearly 22,000 Palestinians. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Israel to do more to protect Palestinian civilians.

While this could open the door to a new phase of reduced fighting, the Israeli prime minister said the war will will take many more months.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the war until Hamas is dismantled and the more than 100 hostages still held by the militant group in the Gaza Strip are released.

The Israelis said they are preparing for fighting to continue throughout the new year by reshuffling their troops in Gaza and anticipating a smaller presence on the ground.

Two reservist brigades will return to their “families and civilian life” this week.

In addition, three brigades deployed to train specific troops will return to their scheduled training. This is all intended to ease the burden on reserve troops as the IDF prepares for a long road ahead.

Meanwhile in Gaza, UNRWA warns of a growing hunger crisis, saying 40% are at risk of famine. People in Gaza have been seen swarming with food convoys, saying their goal every evening is just to see tomorrow.

Over 330 trucks have brought relief supplies to Gaza in the last two days. The United Nations and other groups say people don’t have enough to eat because not enough aid is getting into Gaza.

Israel, however, blames the United Nations, claiming the group is failing to properly distribute aid and allowing it to fall into Hamas’s hands.