Israel discovers massive hidden tunnel near Gaza border
Israeli Military Discovers Massive Tunnel Shaft in Gaza
The Israeli military made a startling discovery on Sunday, uncovering a large tunnel shaft in Gaza near a former bustling crossing into Israel. This revelation raises serious questions about how Israeli surveillance failed to detect the conspicuous preparations made by Hamas for their deadly assault on October 7th.
The entrance to the tunnel is located just a few hundred meters from the heavily fortified Erez crossing and an Israeli military base in close proximity.
Unprecedented Attack and Devastating War
The military revealed that the tunnel stretches over 2 1/2 miles, connecting to an extensive network of tunnels across Gaza. It is even wide enough for cars to pass through. The army confirmed that this tunnel was used to transport vehicles, militants, and supplies in preparation for the October 7th attack.
On that fateful day, militants used a rocket-propelled grenade to breach a section of the wall near the Erez crossing, storming the base. Tragically, at least three soldiers were killed, and some were kidnapped and taken back to Gaza. This breach was one of several instances where militants easily overcame Israel’s security defenses, infiltrating Israeli territory and causing the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, with around 240 others taken hostage.
This unprecedented attack sparked a devastating war that has raged for over 10 weeks, claiming the lives of more than 18,000 individuals in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian health officials. Israel has emphasized the destruction of Hamas’s tunnel network as a primary objective, highlighting that many of these underground passages run beneath schools, hospitals, and residential areas.
Criticism and Surprising Success
Israeli military, intelligence, and political officials have faced heavy criticism for their failure to detect the impending attack.
Maj. Nir Dinar, a military spokesperson, explained that Israeli security services were unaware of the tunnel’s existence before October 7th because their border defenses were only designed to detect tunnels meant to enter Israel. Dinar stated, “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.” He further revealed that the entrance, a concealed circular cement opening leading to a vast passageway, was hidden beneath a garage, evading detection by Israeli drones and satellite images.
While the military was aware of Hamas’s extensive tunnel network, they did not anticipate the militants’ ability to carry out such a large-scale attack. “It’s no surprise that this was the Hamas strategy all along,” Dinar admitted. “The surprise is that they have succeeded, and the size of this tunnel… was really shocking.”
Symbolic Value and Ongoing Efforts
The Erez crossing, a heavily fortified facility responsible for processing the movement of Palestinians into Israel for various purposes, held significant symbolic value for Hamas. This massive crossing was safeguarded by security cameras, military patrols, and an adjacent military base. However, it suffered extensive damage on October 7th and remains closed.
The army’s specialized “Yahalom” unit, focused on tunnel warfare, has been diligently working to excavate the tunnel since its discovery. They have already found weapons inside.
Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the chief military spokesman, revealed that at least two other “city-sized” tunnels of similar scope have been discovered and are currently being mapped.
Hagari described this tunnel as a flagship project that was fully prepared and waiting. He confirmed that it was utilized during the war, with Israeli soldiers even encountering and eliminating Hamas militants within its depths.
The military also showcased the burnt-out soldiers’ barracks at the nearby base, which were set ablaze by the militants. The charred walls and melted bunks were reminiscent of a furnace. On Friday, the military announced the recovery of the bodies of two soldiers who were present at the base on October 7th.
Maj. Nir Dinar, who personally inspected the tunnel, noted that it is twice the height and three times the width of other tunnels found in Gaza. He revealed that it is equipped with ventilation and electricity, descending up to 50 meters underground at certain points. Dinar emphasized that the construction and maintenance of this tunnel required millions of dollars, significant fuel, and a substantial workforce.
The military’s plan is to destroy the tunnel and continue hunting down militants hiding in other tunnels. ”We will hunt them even if we need to go down to the tunnels,” Hagari declared, emphasizing the importance of rescuing any hostages who may be trapped underground.
How has the fortified entryway between Gaza and Israel become a symbol of the ongoing conflict between the two sides?
Fortified entryway between Gaza and Israel, holds great symbolic and strategic value for both sides. It was once a bustling crossing point for goods and people but has now been reduced to a mere symbol of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
In response to the attack, the Israeli military has intensified its efforts to detect and destroy Hamas’s tunnel network. They have developed new technologies and strategies to counter this underground threat, including the use of advanced sensors and drones. They have also increased intelligence cooperation with other countries facing similar challenges, such as Egypt and Jordan.
Israeli Prime Minister, Naftali Bennett, has condemned the attack and vowed to take strong action against those responsible. He stated, “We will not allow Hamas or any other terrorist organization to threaten the safety and security of the Israeli people. We will continue to target their infrastructure and their leaders until we ensure the safety of our citizens.”
In the aftermath of the attack, both sides have engaged in a war of words, blaming each other for the escalation of violence. The Israeli government accuses Hamas of using civilian infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals, as cover for their military operations. On the other hand, Hamas argues that it is the Israeli blockade of Gaza and the ongoing occupation that drive their resistance.
The discovery of this massive tunnel shaft in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the continued tensions and deep-rooted conflict between Israel and Hamas. It highlights the pressing need for a long-lasting and sustainable solution that addresses the political, economic, and security concerns of all parties involved.
Efforts must be made to resume peace negotiations and find a comprehensive resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The international community should also play a constructive role in promoting dialogue and supporting initiatives that promote trust and understanding between the two sides.
Only through a genuine and inclusive peace process can the cycle of violence be broken, and a better future be secured for the people of Israel and Gaza. The discovery of this tunnel shaft should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders that the status quo is unsustainable and that a lasting solution must be found.
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