What’s new:
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have discovered concrete evidence of Iran’s involvement in training the Hamas militant group to produce and operate precision rockets. The disclosure came following the IDF’s recent operation that revealed a complex tunnel system stretching 100 meters in the northern Gaza Strip.
Why it matters:
This find exposes Tehran’s direct role in enhancing the capabilities of Hamas, potentially increasing the threat level against Israeli population centers. Israeli intelligence has long pointed to Iran providing financial and logistical support to Hamas, but the recent evidence indicates a more hands-on approach in advancing the militant group’s weaponry sophistication.
The backdrop:
Hamas’ improved military effectiveness, including the deployment and usage of precision rockets, have previously been attributed to general support from Iran. However, the evidence from the recent IDF tunnel incursion yields a more detailed picture of Iranian engagement in Hamas’ arsenal development, highlighting physical indicators of training and guidance, such as Iranian markings on weapons and recovery of Iranian-associated guidebooks and digital messages.
On the ground:
In the strategic tunnel system located in the Daraj Tuffah area, IDF forces encountered stiff resistance from Hamas operatives, marked by intense close-quarter clashes, a departure from Hamas’ typical rapid incursion and withdrawal approach. The engagement also showcased the critical role of drones and helicopters in supporting the IDF’s Nahal infantry brigade on the battlefield.
Big picture:
According to Nahal Commander Col. Yair Zuckerman, the capture of the Daraj Tuffah area signifies the downfall of Hamas’ final northern Gaza stronghold, following the earlier fall of Jabalia and much of Gaza City. This IDF advancement not only disrupts Hamas’ military presence but also hinders its operational capabilities significantly from Israel’s northern border.
The bottom line:
The IDF’s detailed findings of Iranian help in Hamas’ rocket development are a stark reminder of the complex regional dynamics Israel faces, and the continuous need for strategic vigilance against threats emanating from the Gaza Strip.
This story was first published on jpost.com.