Israel Defense Forces uncover Hamas’s largest attack tunnel in Gaza, raising questions about intelligence failures.
At a Glance
- IDF discovers massive Hamas tunnel near Erez crossing, over 4 kilometers long
- Tunnel facilitated Oct. 7 attack, wide enough for vehicles
- Discovery renews scrutiny of Israeli intelligence failures
- IDF plans to destroy tunnel and continue targeting militant networks
Massive Hamas Tunnel Network Exposed
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has uncovered what they describe as the largest Hamas attack tunnel ever discovered in Gaza. Located near the Erez crossing and an Israeli military base, this sprawling underground network stretches over four kilometers in length and is wide enough to accommodate vehicles. The discovery has sent shockwaves through Israel’s security establishment and reignited debates about intelligence failures leading up to the October 7 attack.
IDF spokesperson Maj. Nir Dinar provided insight into why the tunnel went undetected, stating, “As far as I know, this tunnel doesn’t cross from Gaza into Israel and stops within 400 meters from the border, which means the indicators won’t indicate that a tunnel is being built.” This revelation has prompted a reevaluation of Israel’s counter-tunnel strategies and detection methods.
🔴Another terrorist tunnel network in Gaza was discovered passing underneath a hospital and a university by IDF troops—running for over 10km between northern and southern Gaza.
This tunnel network is used by Hamas terrorists to move between different areas in Gaza. pic.twitter.com/3mWOiuMVDC
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 26, 2024
Strategic Importance and Operational Use
The tunnel’s strategic significance cannot be overstated. It played a crucial role in facilitating the October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the deaths of at least three Israeli soldiers and the kidnapping of others. The IDF’s “Yahalom” unit, tasked with excavating the tunnel, has discovered weapons caches inside, further confirming its operational use.
“This was a flagship project that was waiting, finished and ready,” Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari told a news conference.
The tunnel’s sophisticated design includes branches, junctions, plumbing, electricity, and communication lines. This level of infrastructure underscores the significant resources Hamas has invested in its underground network, estimated to span between 350 and 450 miles across Gaza.
IDF’s Response and Future Operations
In response to this discovery, the IDF has intensified its efforts to map and neutralize Hamas’s tunnel network. Using advanced intelligence and technology, Israeli forces have uncovered over 800 tunnel shafts since the ground offensive began, destroying approximately 500 of them.
“Since the beginning of the war, as well as during these days, the IDF has been working to locate and destroy dozens of attack tunnel routes, as part of the systematic dismantling of Hamas infrastructure,” it said.
The IDF’s ongoing operations aim not only to destroy these underground networks but also to rescue potential hostages who may be held within them. This dual-purpose mission highlights the complex nature of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Implications for Regional Security
The discovery of this extensive tunnel network has far-reaching implications for regional security. It demonstrates the sophisticated nature of Hamas’s military capabilities and the challenges faced by Israel in countering such threats. As the conflict continues, the international community watches closely, recognizing that the outcome of this struggle against Hamas’s underground infrastructure could shape the future of Middle Eastern stability.
As Israel presses forward with its operations in Gaza, the uncovering of this massive tunnel serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in modern urban warfare and counter-terrorism efforts. The IDF’s ability to adapt and respond to these challenges will be crucial in achieving its strategic objectives and ensuring the long-term security of Israeli citizens.
