GAZA STRIP - Although the pullout from Gaza is still over a month away, IDF soldiers in administrative roles will begin evacuating bases in the Strip next week.
Several hundred soldiers will be reassigned to bases inside the Green Line, and offices and other equipment will be removed as part of the army's general property removal process.
IDF sources stress there will be no security fallout from the decision.
37-year buildup
The army began removing offices and supplies several weeks ago, as part of a massive logistical operation to loosen the army's grip on Gaza ahead of disengagement by removing a 37-year buildup in of equipment from Gaza.
The operation will begin by removing non-essential buildings and equipment such as auto garages and buildings that have long been out of use, and by reducing the number of IDF bases and outposts.
Army officials say the logistical exercise will not harm the army's operational capability to defend Jewish communities in Gush Katif.
Soldiers with operational duties in Gaza will continue to enter the Strip, but will return to their Green Line bases at night.