The Israeli military has significantly expanded its presence in the central Gaza Strip by establishing military bases and demolishing hundreds of Palestinian buildings. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has set up at least 19 major bases in the area. This military expansion reflects a notable shift in Israeli strategy, as it typically avoided a permanent presence in Gaza. Meanwhile, the IDF responded to accusations from former Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon regarding ethnic cleansing following mass population evacuations due to ongoing military operations.