What’s happening
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), alongside the Israel Security Agency (ISA), announce the discovery of significant quantities of Hamas weapons and assets during a two-week operation conducted in northern Gaza, notably uncovering a massive tunnel under a school near UNRWA headquarters.
Why it matters
The raids have unearthed extensive Hamas military intelligence capabilities and weakened their operation by seizing weapons, ammunition, and crucial intelligence assets. The involvement of UNRWA’s facilities in electricity provisioning for a Hamas tunnel speaks to complex challenges in ensuring humanitarian spaces are not exploited for terrorism.
Number of casualties
The IDF’s operations have reportedly neutralized around 120 Hamas terrorists.
Tunnel Details
An IDF-led search unearthed a 700-meter-long tunnel serving as a significant asset to Hamas’ military intelligence, running directly beneath the building that serves as UNRWA’s central headquarters. The search yielded various intelligence assets aiding future operations against Hamas.
UNRWA’s Headquarters Compromised
The UNRWA’s headquarters itself was found to be stocked with large quantities of weapons, which included rifles, grenades, and explosives. Documents recovered confirm the building’s use by Hamas militants.
Response from UNRWA
Phillippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner-General, has claimed absent information about activities under their headquarters and stated that the facility has been unused by the agency’s staff following an Israeli-issued evacuation preceding bombardment.
Defense Minister’s Declaration
Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant states that dozens of UNRWA workers participated in the terrorist activities, launching the current conflict with Israel, drawing attention to the complexities surrounding international aid in conflict zones.
The bigger picture
This incident highlights concerns surrounding international organizations inadvertently abetting militant activities in conflict regions, calling for a vital reassessment of accountability and safeguards against such misuse.
This story was first published on foxnews.com.