The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has shared a video showcasing what it describes as one of the most intricate underground infrastructures operated by Hamas in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.
According to the IDF, this “root tunnel” stretches seven kilometers underground, reaching about 25 meters deep. It features around 80 rooms utilized for command operations, weapon storage, and as a safe haven for Hamas operatives.
A clip released on November 20 illustrates the complexity and extent of this underground network, highlighting reinforced concrete pathways and spacious rooms.
The Israeli military asserts that the tunnel started beneath property belonging to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and extends under civilian land.
“IDF forces have uncovered one of Gaza’s largest and most complex underground routes, over 7 kilometers long and approximately 25 meters deep, containing about 80 hiding spots where the abducted IDF officer Lt. Hadar Goldin was reportedly held,” states the IDF.
Israeli analysts suggest that eliminating this tunnel would deal a significant strategic blow to Hamas and might facilitate their defeat.
Professor Kobi Michael, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), commented, “The destruction of not only this tunnel, but also similar tunnels and terrorist facilities, is cornering Hamas.”
On another note, Mr. Michael elaborated to FOX News Digital, mentioning that these root tunnels form the backbone of Hamas’s underground combat systems.
“This is a prime example of a root tunnel, serving strategic purposes like command and control, weapon storage, and logistical support,” he explained.
The IDF suspects this particular tunnel network may connect to the place where Lt. Goldin was held captive during the 2014 Gaza War, with Hamas recently returning his remains after over a decade.
Moreover, as Israel intensifies its operations in Gaza, disrupting Hamas’s tunnel network is key to their strategy aimed at weakening the group’s military capabilities and curtailing impending attacks.
In a statement, a military expert mentioned that the construction method utilized by Hamas to navigate beneath civilian facilities was likely aimed at deterring IDF strikes.
Incidents echoing concerns about the detrimental impacts on civilians and the humanitarian conditions in the region continue to emerge. The challenge remains to tackle these underground operations without aggravating the already delicate situation.
As the IDF progresses with its uncovering of an estimated 1,500 Hamas tunnels and mineshafts in Gaza, the implications of this infrastructure on ongoing conflicts are still being evaluated.
