What’s happening:

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have located over 800 tunnel shafts utilized by Hamas in Gaza since the onset of the Israeli ground invasion. Out of these, 500 have been successfully destroyed, according to a recent announcement by the IDF.

Why it matters:

This extensive network of tunnels, some of which extend into Israeli territory, represents a significant strategic asset for Hamas. The IDF’s discovery and demolition of these tunnels disrupts Hamas’s military infrastructure and hinders its ability to mobilize weapons and fighters, potentially reducing the threat to Israeli security.

The details:

The tunnels, many situated within civilian zones like kindergartens, mosques, and playgrounds, showcase Hamas’s strategy of embedding military assets within civilian areas. This tactic raises concerns regarding the use of civilians as shields in conflict, complicating IDF operations aimed at neutralizing threats. In the course of these operations, the IDF has uncovered weapons and other military paraphernalia left behind by Hamas militants.

Background:

Hamas has invested billions of dollars and several years in the development of its underground network. These tunnels have been used for various purposes, including the storage and transport of weapons, as well as potentially housing Israeli hostages captured during past conflicts. The IDF’s current actions are part of a broader effort to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities, including its underground operations.

The big picture:

The ongoing conflict and the IDF’s focus on tunnel destruction underscore the persistent volatility in the region. The discovery and elimination of these tunnels are critical for Israel’s national security, as they prevent Hamas from conducting operations that could lead to further escalations in violence.

This story was first published on jpost.com.