A new phase in Israel's ground offensive in Gaza.

The Israeli military has plans to pull back some troops and shift to more localized operations.

We'll go through that development and the escalating tensions in the Red Sea.

Also had a look at the very long to-do list for Congress in 2024, with several crucial

items that were not addressed late last year.

Plus, the Supreme Court has a tight timeline to rule on the most consequential case involving

the presidency since the year 2000 decision

that sent George W. Bush to the White House.

Good morning and welcome to way too early on this Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024.

Happy New Year, everyone.

I'm John Flemere.

Thanks for starting your day weekend.

Yes, year with us, it is going to be an extraordinarily busy year.

We're so grateful that you're with us.

We begin this morning overseas, where the Israeli military is planning to withdraw some of its

troops from Gaza. Reservists from at least two brigades will be sent home this week.

The IDF says this is expected to, quote, significantly ease the burden on the economy.

Many Israeli businesses were forced to scale back or even shut down after losing much of their

workforce to the war effort. The move will also free up units in case a wider conflict begins

with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Still, the IDF says the

fighting in Gaza will continue throughout the coming months. But U.S. officials say this withdrawal

signals that Israel might be shifting to a more low-intensity operation, which is something the

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