What happened:

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) discovered a significant underground tunnel in the Khan Younis region of the southern Gaza Strip, a tunnel that was previously used by the Hamas terror group to detain Israeli hostages.

Why it matters:

This operation highlights the ongoing challenges that Israel faces in securing the release of captives and sheds light on the conditions faced by hostages while in captivity. The discovery of the tunnel and evidence within illuminates Hamas’ tactics and underlines the urgent need for international attention to the plight of individuals still held captive.

By the numbers:

IDF soldiers engaged directly with Hamas insurgents during the operation, revealing chambers and cells where hostages were once held. The press was shown the operation’s results, believed to signal crimes against humanity committed by Hamas.

What they’re saying:

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari detailed the grim conditions within the tunnel networks, and how hostages were held, providing insights into the extensive military efforts to free the captives and bring them home.

Between the lines:

The plight of hostages is ongoing, with some still presumed to be in captivity while released captives relive ordeals of inhumane conditions. The IDF described the impact on rescues, including incidents of misunderstanding in hostile conditions.

The big picture:

Israeli military operations continue to target Hamas’ extensive underground tunnel networks, demonstrating a vast and complex system that poses a daunting challenge to Israeli security efforts and regional stability.

What’s next:

As operations proceed against Hamas and their infrastructure in Gaza, the priority remains the repatriation of Israeli captives and the return of the remains of fallen soldiers held since previous conflicts.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.