GAZA STRIP. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have uncovered a substantial Hamas tunnel near the Gaza-Egypt border, revealing an unusual feature: it appears to have been constructed for vehicle passage. The tunnel, located along the Philadelphi Corridor—a strategic area seized by Israel in May 2024—stands out due to its size and design.
The IDF reported that the tunnel, measuring 9 feet in height, is situated less than 328 feet from the border fence. Photos of the structure show a concrete-fortified underpass with enough clearance for a combat vehicle to pass through. The IDF is currently dismantling the tunnel and investigating other similar underground routes found in the area.
“At this stage, the troops are continuing with the investigation and neutralization of the underground tunnel route, as well as other large-scale routes that were found,” said an IDF spokesperson. “The IDF will thoroughly destroy all the underground infrastructure on the Philadelphi Corridor and will act with determination to prevent their formation in the future.”
While the IDF did not confirm whether the tunnel extends into Egypt, elite units have been searching for smuggling routes and claim to have demolished dozens over recent months. The destruction of Hamas’s extensive network of tunnels has been a key objective of Israel’s ongoing military offensive in Gaza.
The tunnel network, often referred to as Gaza’s “metro,” is believed to stretch 310 miles and contain up to 5,700 shafts. This expansive system has complicated efforts to capture top Hamas leaders and rescue hostages. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has noted that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar is thought to be hiding “10 storeys underground.”
The complexity and depth of the tunnels, reinforced with iron and concrete, have created a challenging and hazardous environment for Israeli forces. Officials estimate that dismantling the network could take years, a timeframe that may conflict with international pressure to end the nearly 10-month conflict, which has resulted in over 39,500 Palestinian deaths according to Gazan authorities.
An IDF assessment from July 2024 revealed that many of Gaza’s tunnels remain in a “good functioning state,” particularly in Rafah, while repairs have already begun in Khan Younis.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
